Founding of the Near South Neighborhood Association

In 1972, the Rokahr House at 1743 S. 24th St. was the home of Bob and Carol Broman. In the spring, during a unit meeting of the League of Women Voters a group of women discussed challenges faced by their part of town.

Lincoln in 1973

They agreed that neighbors should have organized opportunities to affect the preservation of the area. Within days another group met at the Rokahr House [this time men were invited]. That evening the neighborhood was given a name. The Near South Neighborhood Association was formed. We were on our way.

Later, under Carol Broman’s tutelage, the boundaries of the Near South were drawn on a map, a board of directors was elected, and articles of association were adopted. The articles empowered the board to keep the neighborhood informed about zoning changes, to work to preserve the low-density character of the neighborhood, reduce vehicular congestion and encourage neighborhood pride.

Fifty years later, the NSNA is still going strong. It serves as a model for other community groups and neighborhood organizations.

                                                                                                                                                                -James E. Young