Established in 2002, NeighborSpace is a non-profit land trust that works with a variety of partners to enhance the livability of communities inside Baltimore County’s Urban Rural Demarcation Line (URDL). Using state-of-the-art GIS technology and direct input from residents, NeighborSpace has since conserved 21 sites across the County, totaling 100 acres. Working directly with local communities, 7 of these sites have been improved with stormwater management BMPs, trails, meadows, and gardens. Another 3 restoration projects are in various stages of implementation.

NeighborSpace is excited to announce Phyllis Joris as its new Executive Director. Phyllis started as Program Manager this year and has since shown to be a quick learner and a competent and motivated implementer of Neighborspace’s vision of building better neighborhoods through partnerships with communities. She successfully coordinated the planting, opening, and initial maintenance of 3 new parks and established maintenance and capacity building workshops on several sites. During the recent transition period, Phyllis quickly expanded her commitment to expertly fill the large void that Barbara Hopkins’ departure, after 13 years at NeighborSpace, left behind. Phyllis steered staff and Board into a teamwork approach during what could have been a turbulent time. Her spirit and dedication shine through in her excellent social skills and confident but friendly demeanor. As Aaron Barnett, President of the Powhatan Farms Improvement Association and NeighborSpace Board member states, “NeighborSpace has gained a valuable asset with the hiring of Ms. Phyllis Joris. Her commitment and work ethic demonstrates the kind of individual that Baltimore County needs and will truly benefit from.” The Board is confident that Phyllis will build and maintain the many partnerships needed for NeighborSpace to succeed.

“I am honored to step into the role of Executive Director of the NeighborSpace team. I have found my work with NeighborSpace to be varied and rewarding, and it has been a joy to get to know many of the wonderful people and communities of Baltimore County. I am proud of what NeighborSpace stands for, what it has accomplished in the past 20 years and in the last six months, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to livability in the URDL.” – Phyllis Joris, NS Executive Director

NeighborSpace is hiring a new Program Manager. Please share the job description with your networks.