This is ECCO
The Essex County Community Organization is a multi-faith network that unites people across lines of difference to address the root causes of injustice. ECCO leaders organize for policy change, and draw on our sacred traditions to place human dignity at the center of public life.
ECCO has worked for over 40 years to address the root causes of the problems our communities face, including…
Affordable Housing
Economic Justice
Criminal Justice
Immigrant Rights
What We Believe
We believe that those closest to the pain must lead the fight for change, that we need all of us to win. We organize across race, class, and faith because we know our liberation is interconnected.
Our Community
Essex County, Massachusetts, is a vibrant and diverse community, shaped by generations of people who have built strong, resilient communities. With a rich history of immigration, labor, and grassroots leadership, our region thrives on the strength and solidarity of its people.
We honor the Massachusett, Pawtucket, and Agawam peoples, who have stewarded this land and continue to resist erasure. Their legacy informs ECCO’s commitment to racial and economic justice, as we organize for a future where all who call Essex County home can thrive with dignity and power.
Our Leadership
At ECCO, we believe that those closest to the pain should lead the work, and we cultivate community leadership by centering directly-affected voices in decision-making. Our organizing model empowers local leaders through training and collective action, fostering democratic participation to drive innovative, life-giving solutions to injustice.
Our Board is governed by ECCO leaders that come from the communities we organize.
Board Members
Rev. Andre Bennett, Zion Baptist, Lynn, Co-President
Minister Brenda Womack, Zion Baptist, Lynn, Co-President
Ssezi Mukasa, Bethel AME, Salem, Treasurer
Sam Silverman, Temple Ahavat Achim, Gloucester, Secretary
Ellen Bartlett, Brazilian Community, Beverly
Rev. Holly Brauner, Salem
Martha Curry, UU Church of Greater Lynn, Swampscott
Vianka Jiminez, Immaculate Conception, Salem
Bob Reynolds, North Shore Labor Council, Lynn
Roy Rhodes, Bethel AME, Lynn
ECCO Network
Our network of 59 congregations and the North Shore Labor Council brings many hands to our work for justice and is the heart of ECCO. By working and learning together, we are able to bring about vital changes on the local, county, and state levels.
At ECCO, we believe lasting change happens when we come together. That’s why we build strong coalitions with other power-building organizations across our region and state. We are proud to be part of the following coalitions:
Lynn Racial Justice Coalition (LRJC)