About Us

Founded by Paul Neville in 1996 under the name "Neighborhood Network," the organization has grown to include Camp NorthStar and NorthStar Bible Camp held for six weeks in the summer, the NorthStar Soccer Club in the fall and spring, and afterschool programs including music lessons with our in-house partner, Metropolitan Youth Orchestras.

NorthStar relies on corporate and individual donations, as well as Foundation grants, to fully achieve our goal. (Parents are charged very low rates for our programs, generally on a sliding scale according to family income.) Our largest event fundraiser is the Spring Gala, which is held every year in early to mid April. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Executive Director: Paul Neville

Paul and his wife Jocelyn have lived in the College Hills neighborhood of western Birmingham since 1993, three years before starting the ministry in 1996. They are raising their three children in the community, and as a family, they participate in all aspects of community development. Their kids also participate in NorthStar programs including Camp NorthStar and NorthStar Soccer Club.

Soccer Program Director/Ministry Marketing Director: Val Kikkert

Val graduated Samford University in May 2009 with a degree in journalism and mass communication, concentration in public relations, and a minor in business. She grew up playing competitive soccer and played for the Bulldogs during the time she attended Samford. Val served at Camp All-American in Duluth, Ga., for four summers and has also spent time making disciples of girls in Jamaica.

Board of Directors:

Sara Doughton - Assistant Director of Service Learning, Birmingham Southern College Bunting Center for Engaged Study and Community Action

Charlie Nathan - Parent Representative; Security Guard at Jefferson State Community College

Chad Stogner - Elegant Earth, Inc  Owner