Upper Chichester Township has been recognized by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council for its innovative "Heart and Soul" program, which promotes community and economic revitalization.

Over the past five years, a dedicated group of volunteers and staff from Upper Chichester Township have been working to develop a Community Report to achieve their goal of becoming a “Heart and Soul” community. The Community Report is an interactive document that is being shared throughout the community and includes value statements created by the residents. These value statements are now the starting point for planning activities done by the township and have provided a way of restoring hope within the community.

The Heart and Soul program aimed to engage with the community through hosting outreach events, gathering resident research, and finalizing its research in a community report with the help of grant support. "We are so grateful for the support of the Department of Economic Development, Pennsylvania Humanities Council, and the Orton Foundation in helping us develop our Heart and Soul program," said George L. Needles, Township Manager. "Their grant support has been instrumental in allowing us to engage with our community and develop innovative solutions to promote economic growth and revitalization in Upper Chichester Township."

The township's commitment to actively engaging with its residents through the Heart and Soul program and promoting economic growth and revitalization has resulted in the creation of volunteer programs, increased economic activity, improved public infrastructure, and a heightened sense of community. "The Upper Chichester Township Board of Commissioners would like to thank the dedicated volunteers and all of our community partners for making the Upper Chichester Township Heart and Soul program what it is today," said Commissioner Nicole Whitaker, Vice President of the Board of Commissioners. "Without their hard work and dedication, this program would not be possible. We look forward to continuing our efforts to promote economic growth and to working with our residents and businesses to achieve our goals for the community."

Upper Chichester Township is proud of its recognition by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council and is committed to continuing its efforts to promote community and economic revitalization through innovative programs like Heart and Soul. Upper Chichester Township encourages citizens to learn more about local government and how it affects each resident and business in the community. "I am so proud of our community coming together to achieve our great works so far. This recognition is a testament to our collective efforts to promote community revitalization, and bring a high quality of life to everyone just like me who lives and works here," said Heart & Soul Board Member, Lauren Aaron. “This is a great opportunity for everyone to get involved in our community.”

Earlier this month, the Upper Chichester Heart and Soul program was also awarded the Governor's Award for Local Government Excellence. This award recognized the township's commitment to actively engaging with its residents through the Heart and Soul program. Upper Chichester Township is proud of this recognition and continues to work towards a high quality of life for everyone who lives and works in the community.

To view the full photo album of the presentation at the Board of Commissioners meeting visit:

For more information about the Upper Chichester Heart & Soul Program, its initiatives, and volunteer opportunities, please visit https://www.facebook.com/UpperChiHeartandSoul.