Upper Chichester residents get ready to put their values into action

Upper Chichester’s Heart & Soul initiative energized the community in summer 2021 by hosting two well-attended summits where residents from across the township gathered to discuss and vote on action ideas tied to seven core value statements. These values—such as sense of community, safety, economic opportunity, and recreation—had been developed earlier through volunteer-led conversations and story-gathering with a wide range of stakeholders, including residents, nonprofits, and business leaders.

The PA Community Heart & Soul model, which emphasizes resident engagement in planning and decision-making, served as the foundation for this work, helping people voice what matters most to them and laying the groundwork for future community improvements. Participants at the summits expressed hope and enthusiasm for positive change, with action items from the events slated to be incorporated into a community action plan that will guide practical next steps.

To broaden participation, the leadership team also conducted a “7-day blitz” of outreach using mail, email, and social media to ensure as many voices as possible were included. As pandemic-related restrictions eased and in-person interest grew, township officials and organizers noted rising energy and momentum, viewing the Heart & Soul process as a way to chart a collaborative and prosperous future for Upper Chichester.