The Kingsbridge Heights Neighborhood Improvement Association (KHNIA) may not celebrate its 39th anniversary next year. The grassroots nonprofit faces eviction with no plans for an alternate location, entering an uncertain future that will be settled in Housing Court.

The organization operates out of 2805 University Ave. by its vice president and outreach coordinator, Elizabeth Thompson. The building management company, The Morgan Group, is proceeding with an eviction action after KHNIA accrued $6000 in back rent. Until a final ruling is made on the eviction, a judge is allowing Thompson to use the apartment for one hour a day to take care of business matters on behalf of the waning group.

Thompson is trying a variety of fundraising activities to meet the group’s financial obligations. “I’ve organized flea markets and an Easter egg hunt so we could keep paying our bills,” Thompson says.

She has also made financial requests to New York City Council members, reached out to Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., and contacted individuals from the Bronx Democratic County Committee in search of additional funds. “I haven’t heard back from any of them,” says Thompson.

Under the leadership of founder Al Chapman, who passed away in February 2017, the organization had a paid director, treasurer, and had hired organizers to help with the various issues affecting the neighborhood. It also could count on funding of up to $25,000 from convicted State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr., a seat currently held by State Senator Gustavo Rivera, according to Thompson. “I remember Al commenting how generous Espada was with the association,” Thompson says.  Under new rules member items have been eliminated at the Legislature. The group is now searching for a grant writer who can volunteer their services as they cobble donations.

Throughout its history KHNIA has taken up community issues from fighting the closing of a Citibank branch in the 1980s to supporting parents protesting the busing of 5-year-olds from PS 86 to PS 257 in Tremont.

KHNIA was also an active voice in the repurposing of the Kingsbridge Armory.  Through the years it has made sure that residents’ concerns were heard with every idea proposed from plans to turn it into a shopping center to the creation of public schools within the massive structure.  The Armory is now slated to become the Kingsbridge National Ice Center.

A review of 990 tax forms that are required to be filed by nonprofit groups reveals that KHNIA has not filed its taxes since 2004. Its last 990 form covering their fiscal year ending June 2003 reveals direct financial support from the public of $19,471 and an ending fund balance of $26,662 after paying expenses.

After a hearing in the Bronx Housing Court June 15, Thompson was given one week to return before the judge and present eyewitness proof that other board members recognize her as Chapman’s successor.  This recognition will allow her to make official decisions on behalf of the board.

“Money or no money, the board’s mission must go on.  We’re praying to get it done,” says Thompson.