The Neighborhood Center Board of Directors (2024-2025)
Phil Ingram
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 5 years
Position on the board: President
Why do you serve on TNC board? After retiring from a successful career I wanted to do something for children in Center City Allentown who may not have the same opportunities as those living outside the city. I believe using my managerial skills and my leadership at the Center is providing the kids with the positive experiences they need to become successful adults.
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? My wife and I are dog lovers and running our Mountain Cur, Duke, multiple times a day helps to keep me and Duke in shape. I am also a lifelong “gearhead” and really enjoy working on my son’s hotrod Honda with him.
Charles Hegedus
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 5 years
Position on the board: Vice President
Why do you serve on TNC board? I enjoy serving the community, especially interacting with children and helping them develop, which is a primary mission of The Neighborhood Center
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? Enjoying time with family and friends, bike riding, walking my dog, and reading
Toney C. Horst CPA
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 1 year
Position on the board: Treasurer
Why do you serve on TNC board? It means a lot to me to contribute my time and financial experience to an organization that is serving the community in such a unique way. Accounting services can be very expensive so if I can help in any way minimize or remove those costly barriers, more time and resources can be spent on behalf of the children that The Neighborhood Center serves.
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? I love to exercise by participating in Zumba classes, walking our two-year-old Schnoodle, Hershey, and watching any sport where by my Clemson Tigers are playing.
Joanna Bender, M.Ed
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 6 months
Position on the board: Secretary
Why do you serve on TNC board? As a stay at home mom with an extensive background in early childhood education, I was looking for a way to use my professional knowledge and skills to help children have a solid foundation to the start of their educational journey. The Neighborhood Center's mission to reach the children of Allentown and provide them with a strong start to build a better future at no cost to families is something that is near and dear to my heart.
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? I enjoy going for walks with my lab Lucy and goldendoodle Molly, watching the Phillies and Eagles with my husband and son, and reading historical fiction novels.
Jordan Smith Hidalgo
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 3 years
Position on the board: Community Outreach Director
Why do you serve on TNC board? I serve on the board because I’ve always had a passion for giving back to my community and working with children. The Neighborhood Center has allowed me to do just that and help shape the future of our community.
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? My go to way to unwind after a long day is salsa dancing and creating art with my two kids.
Mary Hodrick
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 1 year
Position on the board: Marketing/Fundraising Chair
Why do you serve on TNC board? When I had the opportunity to learn about The Neighborhood Center and then visit to meet the kids that attend their programming, I immediately felt drawn to continue helping them provide the services these kids need at an important time in their lives. Every child deserves a chance to live a happy and healthy life surrounded by people who care about them.
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? Spending time with my husband, Mike, and our two boys, Luke and Mark, most likely watching or attending a sporting event. If by some chance I get some time to myself, I enjoy reading or going shopping (especially when I get a girls’ day out with my Mom)!
Patrick Barry
How long you’ve been a part of TNC board: 1 month (New Member)
Why do you serve on TNC board? Every child and teenager deserves a chance to flourish and have the support of their community and The Neighborhood Center aligns with this vision. I have a passion for serving individuals and organizations so they can realize their fullest potential and I believe The Neighborhood Center allows me to put that passion into action.
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a long day? Running while listening to an audible book or one of my favorite podcasts.
Shalanda Riddick
Director Emeritus
Karen Berard
Executive Director
Karen has been at The Neighborhood Center since October 1, 2007. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Criminal Justice. A lifelong resident of Allentown, Karen is married with two children and four grandchildren, who all bring her so much joy!
Why do find most fulfilling about working at TNC? I love the work that I am able to do at The Neighborhood Center and the positive impact that we have on the community. The children and parents we serve bring a great deal of fun into my life!
What's your go-to way to unwind after a long day? In my free time, I enjoy swimming and tanning in the sunshine. I enjoy being outdoors.
