Ready to Impact: Leadership Northeast Core Class of 2026 Reveals Projects

The Leadership Northeast Core Class of 2026 has set remarkable goals for their community impact projects, according to Jessica Cronauer, executive director.

“These seven teams of committed servant leaders are addressing needs that range in scope from housing renovations benefiting victims of domestic violence to providing backpacks full of necessary supplies for children in the foster care system,” Cronauer said. “They’ve chosen critical nonprofit partners, and we know that their collaborative efforts and advocacy will make a positive and sustainable difference for NEPA.”

Cronauer said the Community Impact Project component of the Leadership Northeast experience is meant to serve several purposes. She said classmates work together to design and execute a project that fulfills a community need.

“In doing so, participants apply the leadership development skills they learn throughout the year, while making a critical and positive impact on the community,” Cronauer said.

Between the Core, Junior, and Impact leadership programs, Leadership Northeast participants complete upwards of 40 projects annually, collaborating with other nonprofits, schools, government agencies, and community organizations.

Leadership Northeast Core Class of 2026 projects

• The Barkitects

The Barkitect’s team, in collaboration with West Pittston Borough and its Recreation Board, are expanding the existing dog park to include a dedicated area where small dogs can play safely and comfortably.

The Barkitects team members: Irving Castro, CVS; Dominick De Matteo, Misericordia University; Steve Husted, Knot Just Any Day Photography; Eileen Kelly, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies; Clarissa Meade, First Keystone Community Bank’ Megan Rogers, Benco Dental; Holly Spece, Johns Hopkins University.

• Warriors in Wellness

The Warriors in Wellness team is partnering with Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) to empower patients by providing access to clean drinking water, reusable welcome kits, and opportunities for social connection. The team project (Wellness Program) will include the installation of a hydration station and distribution of motivational tote bags, which will address basic needs and foster a sense of belonging. Patients can enjoy uplifting items and participate in wellness activities, all while preparing for expanded programming as VIM renovates its second floor.

Warriors in Wellness team members: Alysha Davis, WellSpan Health; Kyra Fauerbach, King’s College; Chloe Guerra, Geisinger; David Kale, Family Service Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania; Lisa Malarkey Luzerne County Head Start; Amanda Nicotra, UGI; Patricia Wilmot, Peoples Security Bank & Trust.

• Furrever Friends

Team Furrever Friends is proud to support the revitalization of the SPCA of Luzerne County’s cemetery, a cherished space that has served the community since 1960 as a place of remembrance and reflection for beloved animal companions. This project focuses on restoring dignity, safety, and curb appeal to the grounds through thoughtful cleaning, refurbishment, and landscape improvements. By addressing overgrowth, repairing and upgrading benches and fencing, refreshing signage, and enhancing the entrance, we aim to preserve the cemetery’s history while ensuring it remains a welcoming, peaceful space for the community for years to come.

Furrever Friends team members: Rachel Brutosky, Sovereign Commercial Services; Will Grabinski, Mohegan Pennsylvania; Dominick Gulius, AssuredPartners of NEPA; Nicole Kapp, Wells Fargo; Erica Sadowski, Geisinger; Jacob Savitski, Martz Bus; Gregory Zukosk, Verdantas.

• Bytes for Hope

Bytes for Hope is partnered with Ruth’s Place in Wilkes-Barre to enhance their computer area for client use. This space will provide individuals with the tools they need to search for employment, housing, and other essential resources.

Their plan includes installing at least two new laptops and upgrading the area with comfortable, modern computer chairs and a fresh coat of paint to create a welcoming and productive environment.

Bytes for Hope team members: Marc Dixon, MAD Consulting, LLC; Kristin Grow, Fidelity Bank; Jared Melochick, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Melissa Moore, Clem-Mar House, Inc.; Alice Morris, Benco Dental; Timothy Morris, Restored Church; Molly Walsh, F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.

• Furrever Friends

Team Furrever Friends is proud to support the revitalization of the SPCA of Luzerne County’s cemetery, a cherished space that has served the community since 1960 as a place of remembrance and reflection for beloved animal companions. This project focuses on restoring dignity, safety, and curb appeal to the grounds through thoughtful cleaning, refurbishment, and landscape improvements. By addressing overgrowth, repairing and upgrading benches and fencing, refreshing signage, and enhancing the entrance, we aim to preserve the cemetery’s history while ensuring it remains a welcoming, peaceful space for the community for years to come.

Furrever Friends team members: Rachel Brutosky, Sovereign Commercial Services; Will Grabinski, Mohegan Pennsylvania; Dominick Gulius, AssuredPartners of NEPA; Nicole Kapp, Wells Fargo; Erica Sadowski, Geisinger; Jacob Savitski, Martz Bus; Gregory Zukosk, Verdantas.

• Bytes for Hope

Bytes for Hope is partnered with Ruth’s Place in Wilkes-Barre to enhance their computer area for client use. This space will provide individuals with the tools they need to search for employment, housing, and other essential resources.

Their plan includes installing at least two new laptops and upgrading the area with comfortable, modern computer chairs and a fresh coat of paint to create a welcoming and productive environment.

Bytes for Hope team members: Marc Dixon, MAD Consulting, LLC; Kristin Grow, Fidelity Bank; Jared Melochick, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Melissa Moore, Clem-Mar House, Inc.; Alice Morris, Benco Dental; Timothy Morris, Restored Church; Molly Walsh, F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.