About Us

History

The Olneyville Neighborhood Association began informally in the 1990s in the basement of a local church, as a forum for neighbors in one of Rhode Island's most marginalized neighborhoods to discuss their day-to-day conditions.  Over time, ONA's leaders came to realize that external forces were driving displacement through the elimination of local jobs, raising housing and rent prices, and the creation of a cultural war against the immigrants and people of color who make up the vast majority of Olneyville's population.  By 2005, these leaders had recruited others and clarified ONA's  mission, vision, and organizing methods.  While maintaining its base in Olneyville, the organization has relaxed its geographic boundaries to include people no matter what neighborhood they live in.  Read about our Past Achievements.
Atlantic Mills, once RI's largest employer, now home to ONA's office

Membership

ONA believes that people of color, immigrants and those families that live in poverty need to be at the forefront of any effort to change the oppressive conditions that affect their lives.  As members of ONA, they form the backbone of the organization, taking leadership in improving their lives through collective action -- by organizing to create change.  They build the organization by reaching out  to their neighbors, deepen their consciousness through political education, and decide what strategies and tactics the organization uses in its organizing and political gns.  ONA's Board of Directors is elected annually and is formed of some of the most committed members.  See who's currently serving on the Board of Directors.


Our humble, yet beloved office.

Coordination Team

ONA is staffed by a three-person "Coordination Team."  This team is responsible for coordinating the organization's activities.  Coordinators are hired from within the membership and work between six months and a year in their position before transitioning back.  This structure allows members to develop their leadership skills and experience and ensures that the organization remains democratic and accountable.  Meet the current Coordination Team.

Latest news

26. October ONA awarded in the 25th aniversary of DARE, 2011
22. September Celebration
20. September "Know your Rigths and Emergency Plan"