A New Bedford Legend is Stepping Down After Decades of Community Leadership

The President and CEO of Dennison Memorial Community Center in New Bedford is stepping down and retiring. Jim Mathes has been the face of New Bedford business and nonprofit groups for decades, from Junior Achievement to the Greater New Bedford Chamber of Commerce, Smiles Inc., and most recently, Dennison Memorial.

Joe Neves will take over as President and CEO of Dennison, at least for now.  He's also the Executive Director.

Both Neves and Mathes visited Townsquare Sunday this week. Neves talked about his new role at Dennison, while Mathes shared some thoughts on what his retirement might look like.

Decades of Impact on the New Bedford Community

"Retirement is going to be different," Mathes said. "I have worked continuously since I was a sophomore in high school and have never been unemployed. Some people have already approached me about getting involved with things, but I want to take a few months and get the lay of the land before I decide what comes next for me."

When asked what he will miss most about Dennison, Mathes said it's the kids and the energy they bring into the building every day. "They may drive me nuts on some days, but the work we do is important, keeping those kids safe in our building and off the streets," he said.

Supporting Hundreds of South End Youth Daily

Thanks to Mathes' leadership and a hardworking staff, Dennison has enrolled about 500 South End kids in the program, with 150 showing up most days. Some grab a ball and play hoops in the gym, or spend time on the playground. Academic support is available to help with homework, and classes are now being offered to parents to help them learn the English language.

Mathes said during the summer, kids can take part in numerous field trips, from local parks and attractions to the Boston Museum of Science.

Dennison Memorial via Facebook

Joe Neves Steps Up to Carry the Legacy Forward

Neves has worked at Dennison Memorial for more than 30 years, serving as assistant Executive Director until the untimely passing of Sean Hargraves in 2024. He will also serve as CEO and President, at least for the time being.

"It's a wonderful opportunity to follow two legacies, Sean Hargraves and Jim Mathes. We worked so well together," Neves said. "Sean worked with the kids, starting games and going on field trips. Jim handled the business side of Dennison. I learned a lot from both of them."

The Future of Dennison Memorial

Neves said Dennison will continue with its current plans and programs, but he does have some ideas he would like to try out in the future. "Jim has a saying, 'Don't be afraid to fail.' So, we're going to try some new ideas, if they don't work, they don't work, but we know what we have in place as part of our foundation," he said.

"I just want all of the children at Dennison and the families to understand that everyone there is part of a big, big family," Neves said. "We want to give kids self-esteem skills and social skills so they can make good decisions in the future."

You can learn more about Dennison by visiting dennisoncommunity.org.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.