When the City approached us about doing a festival in Mingo Park at the end of the inaugural Lincoln Mile Race, we were happy to lend a hand. Our volunteers stepped up and the planning began. We reached out to our partners in the community and asked them a simple question. In one word, what makes Delaware special from your perspective? We were delighted when organizations responded and got creative. They made banners that showcased their one-word choice. And they participated in posting them throughout the park. Thank you to our community partners and many volunteers who helped. Here are their words and why.

UNITY: from Unity Community Center. We believe in including everyone and building a strong foundation on the strengths of many individuals from many different perspectives. We are stronger when we unite. Our sewing group made our banner. Special thanks to Margo.

IMAGINATION: from the Delaware County District Library and their Book Mobile. What a great way to celebrate books, movies, and everything else you can find at our local library.

TEACHERS: from Delaware City Schools. Teachers and staff are the backbone of our school system and they bring education and learning alive for students of all ages.

CONNECTED: from Delaware County Transit. It’s right in their mission statement of making lives better by connecting people to their community through safe and reliable transportation.

DEDICATED: from Delaware Public Health District whose many essential services set them up to be a dedicated leader in achieving the healthiest community to live, work, and grow.

COMMUNITY: from The Loop, a teen social club dedicated to those with autism and other exceptionalities. Their goal is to build community where teens can meet friends, develop social skills, and have fun!

INCLUSIVE: from Bean Bag Books. They provided the definition of doing whatever is necessary to include and accommodate everyone. Their vision is to be an inclusive, family-centered space that provides creative experiences through stories and play.

MOVIES: from our local historical movie theatre, the Strand. As one of the 10 longest running movie theatres in the country, they have been bringing movies to the community for 110 years.

GARDENS: from a variety of organic and community based gardening organizations around the county. Relying on fresh grown produce is healthy for humans, animals, and the environment.  We are lucky to have many dedicated gardens around Delaware.

And of course, we have to include the Maker Studio at the Delaware County District Library. They lent a helping hand to many of these groups. If you haven’t checked them out, they are a gem in the community.