Acton, MA — The Acton-Boxborough United Way Annual Meeting on June 18 celebrated the
accomplishments of the past year, recognized outstanding volunteers, and opened its next chapter
as Acton-Boxborough Community Compass.
“As a trusted local organization for the past 44 years, Acton-Boxborough Community
Compass is uniquely positioned to connect neighbors with what they need the most.
Some need a winter coat or emergency financial support; others are looking for an
opportunity to make a tangible local impact. We do our work with compassion and
enduring love for this community.” said Executive Director Katie Neville.
The heart of the work is Acton-Boxborough Resource Center (ABRC), a welcoming neighborhood
hub that has become a lifeline for many. “Every week, we witness magic here,” said board member
Kathy Casey. “When an item is needed, it always seems to appear. But it’s more than that — people
find connection, community, and hope.”
In the past year alone, ABRC:
● Welcomed 1,106 visitors, distributing over 20,000 essential items, including 700+ winter
coats
● Launched daily English language learning
● Engaged high school students in workforce development programs with meaningful
volunteer experience
● Developed impactful initiatives like the Prom Pop-Up, Birthday Closet, and Holiday Gift
Drive
● Supported families transitioning from emergency housing and those impacted by recent
immigration enforcement actions
This past year, the organization provided $100,000 in grants to 24 local nonprofits, in addition to
supporting two dozen individuals with emergency housing and utility support. Moving forward,
the community investment strategy will focus on community-driven initiatives, a Project of the
Year, and continued support of those in need of emergency assistance.
How is the strategy evolving?
“For the first 40 years, the organization helped community members looking to make an impact by
vetting local agencies and distributing grants to meet local needs. This ongoing work surfaced
opportunities for us to step in directly where our community has unmet needs. We are deeply
committed to supporting local nonprofits, and our role has expanded to directly helping our
increasingly diverse community,” explained Carol Buysse, Board Co-Chair.
Why did the organization leave the United Way network?
Founded in 1981 as the Acton-Boxborough Community Chest, the organization joined the United
Way network in 1989. For decades, the partnership served our community well, especially with
the participation of local companies like Digital funneling donations through the national United
Way network via workplace giving campaigns. In recent years those programs have declined
dramatically and membership dues for the United Way network have increased. “Folks assumed
we were funded from the top down by a big national umbrella. The reality is, and has always been,
that we are funded by the community. We made the bold and exciting decision to step into a new
identity. Local dollars for local impact,” said Board Member Quentin Cote.
What’s Next?
AB Community Compass relies on community involvement. Fall events will include community
house parties, the return of Storytelling Night, and the launch of a new Advisory Council.
“We hope every resident feels welcomed to be part of this work — by giving, volunteering, or
simply sharing the word,” said Neville.
To learn more, get involved, or make a donation, visit ABCcompass.org.
Contact:
Katie Neville, Executive Director
Acton-Boxborough Community Compass
kneville@abuw.org | 978-245-7665
