Our Mission 

RNH strengthens our community in the northwest Bronx by delivering programs responsive to local needs, by building connections and promoting equity across generations, cultures and economic backgrounds, and by creating a sense of place.

RNH provides an array of services and programs to community members of all ages, including Universal Pre-K, after-school enrichment, college prep, teen internships, community art and fitness classes, senior telephone reassurance, a community pool, and most recently, a Food and Farm Hub, which consists of an urban garden and mutual-aid fridge.

Our History

RNH was founded in 1872 when the young Grace Dodge started a lending library out of her greenhouse– a bookshelf of resources for local laborers. With a 150-year history as a settlement house in the northwest Bronx and active member of United Neighborhood Houses of New York, RNH responds to the evolving, unique needs of the greater community by providing services, programs, and resources to support them. In 2018, RNH expanded its footprint and joined forces with Riverdale Community Center (RCC), a grass-roots, multi-service agency that provides cultural, recreational, and academic activities. Today, RNH serves over 5,000 neighbors as the only non-sectarian multi-service agency in Riverdale.

Our Values

Responsiveness – We proactively seek to understand our community’s changing needs and evolve and adapt programs to support them.

Inclusiveness – We ensure that a broad and diverse community of individuals, families, and staff have full and equitable opportunity to access our programs and campus.

Connection – We foster relationships and connection among community residents. Our community is stronger when neighbors interact with each other.

Stewardship – We are stewards of our community and center sustainability into our programs and operations. We act today for future generations.