Neighborhood House Appoints Jeffrey E. Benatti Interim Executive Director

Jeffrey E. Benatti

On Tuesday, May 5, the Neighborhood House Board of Directors approved the appointment of Jeffrey E. Benatti to serve as Interim Executive Director.

Jeff succeeds Alison Windle, who stepped down after 11 years of service to Neighborhood House. During her tenure, the organization continued its longstanding mission of empowering children and families, and the Board extends their deep gratitude for her leadership and dedication.

Jeff brings an exceptional depth of experience to this interim position. He served as Executive Director of New Castle County Head Start, Inc. for 33 years before retiring in 2022. During his time there, he led a remarkable transformation of the agency, taking a federally at-risk program and building it into one ranked in the top 10% of Head Start programs nationwide. Since his retirement, Jeff has remained actively engaged in the community through volunteer service at the board level with Neighborhood House, Read Aloud Delaware, and the Latin American Community Center.

"We are fortunate to have someone of Jeff's caliber step into this role," said Dave DiGiacoma, Neighborhood House Board Chairman. "His leadership, experience, and deep commitment to this community will provide the stability and direction Neighborhood House needs as we navigate this important period."

The Board of Directors will soon launch a search committee to identify Neighborhood House's next Executive Director.

Rooted in Southbridge

Since 1927, Neighborhood House has been a cornerstone of Wilmington's Southbridge community. Our programs — spanning early childhood education, youth development, housing counseling, and family services — bring hope and empowerment to hundreds of our neighbors each year.