Our History

PACE, Inc. was incorporated as a private non-profit Community Action Agency in 1982 in response to a lack of needed services in the Greater New Bedford Area. A group of committed community leaders from New Bedford worked with state officials to form a new Community Action Agency to replace the defunct agency then responsible for programs to benefit the low income community of Greater New Bedford. Out of this effort came a newly formed, grassroots driven organization aptly named People Acting in Community Endeavors,(PACE).

Our Timeline

1982

• Incorporated as a Private Not-for-Profit Agency.
• Board of Directors selected by community.
• Kenneth N. DeSilva was elected President of PACE Board.
• Lorraine Khazan, PACE's Assistant Executive Director is hired as Our first staff person.
• Craig Dutra begins his 4 year tenure as PACE's Executive Director.

1983-1984

• PACE becomes sponsor for New Bedford Head Start.
• PACE acquired local Fuel Assistance and Low Cost Wetherization and Heating System Programs.
• PACE begins the distribution of Food Surplus Commodities Program.
• PACE receives services contract to assist homeless individuals and families.
• PACE awarded additional contract for housing services.

1985

• PACE took steps to develop affordable housing.

1986

• Child Care Works was created to help working families find quality child care.
• Bruce Morell becomes the new Executive Director

1987

• Inception of the Summer Youth Employment Program.
• PACE established Hispanic Multi Service Center.
• The Dislocated Workers Program locates at PACE.
• PACE Monthly Cable TV Show is introduced to the area.

1992

• PACE established the the largest SERVE coorporative site in New England.

1993

• Local Youthbuild Site is established.

1995

• PACE became lead agency for the New Bedford AIDS Coalition

1998

• Health Access Program is added to assist the uninsured

2000

• The Dental Sealant Clinic opened at the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational High School. PACE was the responsible party for bringing the Clinic to fruition.

2002

• PACE celebrates its 20th anniversary.