New Bethel is a ministry with works and partners in the community: Nurturing civil activism with the Willow Grove Branch of the NAACP Youth engagement through mentorship with the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Abington-Amblers Guide Right Program Mutual Community Vision and Vigilance through initiatives and collaboration with the Crestmont Safe Haven organization. The seeds for the Willow Grove Branch of the NAACP began with the establishment of the Crestmont Improvement Association in the early 1920’s. The branch was chartered in 1927, 18 years after the founding of the National NAACP. The Willow Grove Branch addresses issues of racism and discrimination in Abington Township services, housing, schools, and jobs as well as issues of economic opportunities. The branch also challenges quality of life and discrimination issues at both the state and national levels. The branch has continued to press for fair housing, fair labor conditions, equity in educational opportunity, and collaboration with other organizations/agencies in the battle against racism and discrimination. The overall condition of racism and discrimination led to the Willow Grove Branch becoming one of 22,000 branches nationally in the “fight.” The record of the branch is anchored in the work of producing equal opportunity for the African American community and its youth in the life of the larger community of Abington. Additionally, the Willow Grove Branch of the NAACP has been a vehicle of support and advocacy to its Youth Council (a chartered partner with the adult branch); recognizes community support services by youth and adults in service to youth; and recognizes and supports agencies that work with youth, such as the Abington Police Department with its Police Athletic League, Youth Aid Panels, and D.A.R.E. program and Citizens And Police Together with its 24-Hour Relay. It also generates an annual Unity Day for the entire community, resulting from a Proclamation by our Township Board of Commissioners. Members of the group volunteer service to various organizations throughout the community, including the schools and organizations at the state and federal levels. The current President, Valerie O. Ward and member of the Executive Committee, Earlene Gaskins, are members of New Bethel AME Church. Crestmont Safe Haven, Inc. (CSHI) is a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation. Members of the New Bethel, African Methodist Episcopal Church established CSHI in 2011 because they recognized and embraced the need for African American men and women to make a meaningful difference in the community. Though the two organizations share a common membership, they are separate and distinct legal entities, with separate boards of directors, finances, administrations and operations. The mission of CSHI is to have a strong, positive and uplifting impact on Crestmont area youth and families by providing them with programs and services that educate, mentor, support, and broaden their horizons. In collaboration with and the support of other organizations and individuals, CSHI carries out this mission year in and year out with programs and services that have an immediate and long-term impact.