Our Name
The “i” stands for Isaiah and “58” is for chapter 58. In Isaiah 58, God promises that if His people will take care of those in need, then His light will break out like the dawn. He will refresh them and they will rebuild the ancient ruins and build on the age old foundations so that they can be called the repairers of the streets in which they dwell. That is our vision for Chester.
Our Assignment
i58’s assignment is to empower low to moderate income individuals through community revitalization initiatives such as housing, neighborhood beautification, and empowerment.
Our Strategy
We take a holistic approach to neighborhood development. We build new affordable energy efficient homes on forfeited land to reclaim properties. We rehab homes for low income home owners to improve living conditions. We train homeowners to own and maintain their home so they can be an asset to their neighborhood.
Our Board Members
Our board members are the heartbeat of our organization. Each member is passionate about seeing revitalization happen within our community, and they serve tirelessly towards that end. The board provides oversight for the overall development, vision, and direction of i58.
Our Volunteers & Staff
The volunteers and staff of i58 are passionate, driven, and dedicated to improving the well-being of their community. They are responsible for the day-to-day operations of i58. This is no small task, but they do it all with a smile, and great love.
Director of Development: Leslie Brakefield
Leslie Brakefield comes to i58 with a passion for helping people. Leslie is the epitome of resourcefulness and a real go-getter. She brings the ideal skillsets of program administration and public service. With over 20 years of experience in public safety and emergency management, her vast connections with government and business are paying off here at i58 as our community works together to meet pressing needs. Leslie is married to Billy, a retired fire captain, and mother to a son, Will.
Why East Chester?
We looked for a place where we could settle down, grow roots, build relationships, and make a long-term investment so hope could shine on every street. East Chester was that place. We are now able to spread our services beyond East Chester while continuing our original commitments.
