Rotarian Michael Dreon serves as the Executive Director of Neighborhood House (NH). He brings more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry to the nonprofit sector. His extensive background equips him with valuable business acumen and a strategic, forward-thinking mindset that benefits Neighborhood House and its mission.

For the past 15 years, Dreon has also been an active member of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic organization dedicated to helping those in need. He has served as president and treasurer of the St. Mary of the Hills Conference. His commitment to service through St. Vincent de Paul inspired a deeper interest in the nonprofit world, ultimately leading him to earn a Nonprofit Management Certificate from Oakland University.

Dreon holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from the University of Michigan.

 

Neighborhood House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping neighbors in need achieve self-sufficiency during times of hardship. The organization serves individuals and families experiencing poverty or those classified as ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed).

While only about 5.5% of the population in the area lives in poverty, significantly below state and national averages, this still represents approximately 8,000 people. Life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, a medical crisis, or a car breakdown can push families into financial instability. NH’s mission is to empower clients toward long-term sustainability.

Poverty thresholds vary by household size. For example, the federal poverty line is $18,961 for a senior couple over the age of 65, and $31,812 for a family of four.

 

Neighborhood House made a profound impact in 2024 through its comprehensive services:

Neighborhood House was founded more than 50 years ago by a coalition of eight local churches, which continue to support its work today. One key church-led initiative is the Plus 1 Food Donation program, which invites parishioners to donate one food item each week. This program alone has generated over 35,000 pounds of food for NH clients.

 

NH welcomes volunteers in the Food Pantry, Clothes Closet, and Main Office. Donations of gently used clothing, shelf-stable food items, and financial contributions are always appreciated and make a meaningful difference.

During a recent visit, Rotarians toured the Food Pantry and helped sort and label food donations. It was both eye-opening and rewarding to see the generosity of community members—and to learn firsthand what items are most needed