June 17, 2026 – Northeast Community Fund has announced that Executive Director Angel Lawrence will conclude her service with the organization on Aug. 3, 2026, as the nonprofit prepares to begin a search for its next leader.
Lawrence has led the Decatur-based organization during a period of growth that included expanded services in food distribution, emergency assistance, housing support, mobile outreach, student basic-needs programs and home improvement assistance. The organization also strengthened partnerships throughout Decatur and Macon County during her tenure.
Board President Carmen Rivera said the transition provides an opportunity to recognize Lawrence’s contributions while maintaining the organization’s focus on serving community members in need.
“This transition is an opportunity to honor the meaningful work that has been accomplished while keeping our focus where it has always belonged — on the people and families who depend on Northeast Community Fund,” Rivera said in a statement. “We are grateful for Ms. Lawrence’s leadership and the role she has played in strengthening our capacity to serve.”
Lawrence said she is proud of the work accomplished during her time with the organization and credited staff, volunteers, donors and community partners for helping advance the nonprofit’s mission.
“Serving this community through Northeast Community Fund has been an honor,” Lawrence said. “This work has never been about one person; it has always been about the families who walk through our doors, the staff and volunteers who serve with compassion, the donors and partners who believe in the mission, and a community that continues to show up for one another.”
Founded to connect individuals and families with resources and support, Northeast Community Fund serves residents throughout Decatur and Macon County through a variety of assistance programs.
The Board of Directors said it will begin a search in the coming weeks for a new executive director who can build upon the organization’s existing foundation and continue its community-focused mission.
“Northeast Community Fund was founded on the belief that people deserve compassion, support and hope in their most difficult moments,” said NECF founder Jerry Pelz. “That mission remains at the heart of everything we do.”
Organization leaders emphasized that services and operations will continue uninterrupted during the leadership transition and thanked donors, volunteers, churches, businesses and community partners for their ongoing support.
