A New Chapter for The Neighboring Movement
Ten years ago, a small group of us believed that good neighbors could change the world. And you proved us right.
On March 17, I will be stepping out of day-to-day leadership as Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Neighboring Movement to begin a new chapter in my career. It is a decision I do not make lightly, and one I make with a full heart.
When Matt and Catherine Johnson, Ashley Barlow-Thompson, and I first began dreaming about what would become The Neighboring Movement, we simply wanted to be good neighbors — believing that connection, presence, and asset-based leadership could reshape a neighborhood. What began in living rooms and on front porches grew into a movement that has influenced Wichita and communities beyond.
Over the past decade, together we have cultivated neighborhood-based leadership, built lasting relationships across Wichita, advanced a model that blends social fabric and economic development, and helped position SoCe as a neighborhood on the cusp of lasting transformation. I am proud of every staff member, board member, volunteer, donor, and neighbor who has poured themselves into this work alongside us.
I am grateful beyond words for the trust, the relationships, and the privilege of being part of something that genuinely matters.
The Neighboring Movement is in good hands. The board has appointed our Associate Director, Amy Draut, as Interim Executive Director. Amy has been instrumental in strengthening TNM's internal systems and operations, and I have full confidence in her leadership. Our core commitments remain unchanged: neighborhood-based leadership, asset-based community development, and a culture of joy, relationship, and abundance.
The SoCe Economic Development work continues, with multiple projects underway. I will remain in a defined role with the SoCe Economic Development Group, LLC, ensuring continuity for current projects as long-term plans are clarified.
The Neighboring Movement does not belong to me — it belongs to everyone who believes that good neighbors can change the world. Thank you for proving that every single day. The best chapter of The Neighboring Movement's story is still ahead.
Adam Barlow-Thompson, Co-Founder and Executive Director
