The new executive director of the Sharpsburg Neighborhood Organization is hoping to continue more than a decade of work in the nonprofit sector, this time helping to improve the quality of life in the quaint river town.

Jodi Klebick will take the reins of the group, founded in 2014 with the vision to make Sharpsburg a “community of opportunity.”

“Sharpsburg is a small town of only about 3,100 residents, and each and every one of them deserves our best efforts to help them thrive,” Klebick said.

“This neighborhood faces a unique combination of challenges that we have the ability to positively impact at a time when there are resources and opportunities available to make that happen.”

From affordable and sustainable housing to training and workforce development to clean energy and infrastructure initiatives, Sharpsburg has a chance to be intentional about how it addresses needs — “all while creating solutions that drive sustainable equity for the future of all of our neighbors in the 15215,” Klebick said.

“Plus, it’s just fun to be here. Everyone in Sharpsburg is so welcoming, positive and so dedicated to making this a joyful place to be.”

Klebick replaced Brittany Reno, who led the group since its inception.

Sharpsburg Neighborhood Organization is housed at 511 S. Main St. It runs projects that enhance economic vitality and ensure long-term sustainability of new development.

Some of its initiatives include free home energy audits, paid career training and enrollment in the Triboro civic leadership academy. The group also hosts community cleanups and spearheaded a nearly 2-mile walking path that highlights the historic and recreational sites in town.

Members have partnered with several others across Allegheny County, such as the Triboro Ecodistrict, ACTION Housing and Public Allies Pittsburgh, in the mission to improve the community through volunteer and other projects.

Locally, the Neighborhood Organization has formed ties with the Sharpsburg Community Library, Roots of Faith and Volunteers of America’s Youth Empowerment Program, among others.

Klebick already has jumped into her role. She’s planted trees alongside borough Manager Christine DeRunk and other volunteers on 13th Street and enjoyed her first taste of the Rotary Club’s mac and cheese at the Arbor Day Festival in Kennedy Park.

“I enjoyed local art at Ketchup City Creative as part of the monthly First Friday activities,” she said. “What’s not to love about a hometown neighborhood like this?”

Board President Lauren Bucaro said Klebick brings energy and creativity to the position, along with a deep sense of commitment to the community.

“She has served other area nonprofits at the program, fundraising and leadership levels, and has a breadth of perspective and experience,” Bucaro said.

A native of Allegheny County, Klebick most recently served as the executive director for Multiplying Good Pennsylvania, as well as the public relations chair for the American Society of Civil Engineers Pittsburgh chapter, where she co-authored “Engineering Pittsburgh: A History of Roads, Rails, Canals, Bridges and More.”

Klebick has lived in Highland Park for at least 15 years and said she has spent a lot of time in Sharpsburg.

“Just don’t ask me which Sharpsburg brewery I prefer because that’s like asking me to choose between a lager and an IPA — you can’t!” she said.

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