Shearer and Friends & Neighbors Receive Award


Congratulations to Robin Shearer and Friends & Neighbors of PA, LLC, recipients of Bell’s 2021 Rita Patz Good Neighbor Award.

Robin and Friends & Neighbors were nominated to recognize their capacity and impact as an organization providing outreach services to people living on the streets in York City. Their relationship with Bell’s Next Door program is important as both entities often offer aid to some of the same people. Next Door staff is in frequent communication with Friends & Neighbors, resulting in reciprocal referrals. Robin and her team demonstrate what it means to be a “good neighbor” with open communication, friendliness and a desire to make the community better.

Rita Patz was a founding volunteer from the Alexander Goode Jewish War Veterans Auxiliary. She volunteered with operating Bell’s Monday Night Program for more than 30 years, served on the Bell Board of Directors, and was voted Board Member Emeritus.  Our Rita Patz Liberty Bell Drop-In Center on King & Pershing was dedicated in her name.