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The Delaware County Digest
Your source for the latest news from Delaware County | August 7, 2025
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Delaware County Celebrates 2025 Summer Internship Program with Culmination Ceremony
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Delaware County’s 2025 Summer Internship Program is drawing to a close, capping off a highly successful season of learning, collaboration, and hands-on government experience.
The County welcomed approximately 90 interns this summer—the most engaged group in the program’s history—representing over a dozen educational institutions, including Delaware County Community College, Neumann University, West Chester University, Saint Joseph’s University, and Community College of Philadelphia. These students were placed across 20 County departments, from Human Resources, IT, and Parks & Recreation to the District Attorney’s Office, Courts, and the Office of Sustainability.
The program, which ran from late May through early August—with some internships extended through August 15—offered students more than just resume-building experience. Interns had the opportunity to:
Learn and grow in their fields of comparative coursework through hands-on experience
Engage in opportunities across County facilities and within the broader community
Interact and professionally glean from Delaware County’s dedicated workforce
“This program opens the doors of County government to the next generation of leaders,” said Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “We are truly appreciative of the energy, ideas, and commitment these students brought to our departments.”
| Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor with Council's three summer interns — Umme Bithy, Mariel O'Leary, and Olivia Mudrick — present at the Internship Culmination Ceremony held this past week. | |
Several interns have already been hired into County roles, and others left with professional connections and a deeper understanding of public service.
To recognize their contributions, the County hosted its annual Internship Culmination Ceremony—an event that brought together Council Members, interns, department directors, and County leaders to reflect on the summer’s achievements. Interns shared their work, lessons learned, and the impact of their experiences.
“These students were more than interns—they were valuable members of our team,” said Council Vice Chair Richard Womack. “Their service made a real difference, and we hope this summer inspires them to continue their engagement in public service.”
This program is a meaningful investment in both the County and its future workforce. The program takes time and coordination, but the payoff is undeniable—for the interns and for the departments that benefit from their energy and perspective.
Applications for the 2026 Summer Internship Program will begin being accepted early next year, with details and application materials expected to be posted online around January 1.
| Delco Interns 2025: 90 interns, 20 departments, countless contributions! Thank you! |
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DCHD Wraps Successful Summer Series Helping Seniors Navigate a Complex Healthcare System
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The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) recently concluded its Navigating Our Healthcare System for Seniors series—an initiative designed to help older residents better access medical records, connect with healthcare services, and navigate increasingly digital health systems.
Working in partnership with local senior centers, DCHD hosted outreach sessions in Chester, Darby, Folsom, Sharon Hill, Media, and Upper Darby. These events provided personalized, one-on-one assistance to older adults seeking support with medical record retrieval, service enrollment, and navigating online healthcare portals. The response from both participants and senior center managers was overwhelmingly positive.
“So many of us have seen firsthand how our older family members struggle with online health system portals,” said Lora Siegmann Werner, Director of the Delaware County Health Department. “DCHD staff members were truly looking forward to being of service at these sessions helping Delaware County seniors request their Crozer medical records.”
The program was especially important in the wake of Prospect Medical Holdings’ bankruptcy and the closure of Crozer-Chester Medical Center, which left many residents—particularly seniors—scrambling to access critical health records and services. Council and DCHD leadership remain committed to helping residents move forward.
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“This is exactly the kind of practical, people-focused service our Health Department was created to provide,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “I’m deeply appreciative of the work our staff is doing to support seniors and provide guidance during such a difficult transition.”
Council Vice Chair Richard Womack added, “Helping seniors access the care and information they need isn’t just a health issue—it’s a dignity issue. This was a great example of County government meeting residents where they are.”
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Senior center managers praised the program’s ability to overcome transportation barriers by bringing services directly to the community. Seniors especially appreciated the blood pressure information cards, which they can now carry to future medical appointments to help recall their last vital readings.
Several centers, including Sharon Hill, requested return visits, while others encouraged DCHD to expand to new locations. Some initially hesitant centers reached out after hearing positive feedback from participating seniors.
Going forward, DCHD is exploring the possibility of continuing the series this fall and into the new year.
For more information, residents can contact the DCHD Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or email DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.
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Delaware County Honors U.S. Coast Guard with Flag Raising Ceremony Celebrating 235 Years
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Delaware County proudly celebrated the 235th anniversary of the United States Coast Guard on Monday, August 4, with a flag raising ceremony held outside the Courthouse in Media. The event, part of the County’s yearlong tribute to the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, honored the enduring legacy and service of Coast Guard members past and present.
County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Vice Chair Richard Womack, Councilmember Christine Reuther, County Controller Joanne Phillips, and Executive Director Barbara O’Malley joined COL Arthur Jenkins, Director of Military and Veterans Affairs, in leading the ceremony. Also in attendance were retired Coast Guard members Mike Schultz (American Legion Post 777) and Larry Albertoli (American Legion Post 1000), along with veterans of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.
COL Jenkins shared a powerful reflection on the history of the Coast Guard, highlighting its long-standing commitment to lifesaving missions, maritime security, and early efforts toward racial integration. From heroic storm rescues to supporting homeland security, the Coast Guard continues to exemplify its motto, “Semper Paratus” — Always Ready.
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“The U.S. Coast Guard has long stood at the intersection of service and social progress. Long before integration became law, the Coast Guard’s predecessor services were quietly breaking barriers—bringing Black sailors into their ranks during the Civil War and commissioning African American officers during World War II,” said COL Jenkins. “As someone who has benefited from the leadership pathways forged in our armed forces, I am deeply grateful for the trailblazers who paved the way—not only for me, but for generations to follow. The Coast Guard’s legacy is not only one of maritime excellence—it’s one of courage, character, and change.”
As part of the ceremony, the Coast Guard flag was raised and will fly at the Delaware County Courthouse for one week.
The event is one of several planned throughout the year to mark the anniversaries of each military branch:
U.S. Air Force – September 18
U.S. Navy – October 13
U.S. Marine Corps – November 10
Delaware County Council extends its deepest gratitude to all who have served or are currently serving in defense of our nation.
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Learn more about resources for military and veteran families at DelcoPA.Gov/VA.
Discover events commemorating America’s 250th at America250PADelco.org.
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Delaware County Teams Joins Community for National Night Out Celebrations Across the County
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Delaware County’s Department of Emergency Services and members of the Delaware County Citizen Corps also played a key role in this year’s outreach, setting up information tables at nearly a dozen National Night Out locations across the County. Staff shared educational materials, distributed preparedness resources, and answered questions about public safety, emergency notifications, and volunteer opportunities in disaster response.
“National Night Out is a reminder of the power of community,” said Dr. Monica Taylor, Chair of Delaware County Council. “It’s an opportunity for residents to come together with law enforcement, firefighters, emergency responders, and County staff to strengthen the bonds that make our neighborhoods safer and more connected. These events not only build trust—they foster understanding, respect, and collaboration. I’m incredibly proud of the partnerships on display across Delaware County and grateful to everyone who plays a role in creating safe and welcoming communities for all.”
Delaware County extends sincere thanks to all who made this year’s events a success and encourages residents to stay engaged with community safety efforts year-round.
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Delaware County’s Department of Emergency Services and members of the Delaware County Citizen Corps also played a key role in this year’s outreach, setting up information tables at nearly a dozen National Night Out locations across the County. Staff shared educational materials, distributed preparedness resources, and answered questions about public safety, emergency notifications, and volunteer opportunities in disaster response.
“National Night Out is a reminder of the power of community,” said Dr. Monica Taylor, Chair of Delaware County Council. “It’s an opportunity for residents to come together with law enforcement, firefighters, emergency responders, and County staff to strengthen the bonds that make our neighborhoods safer and more connected. These events not only build trust—they foster understanding, respect, and collaboration. I’m incredibly proud of the partnerships on display across Delaware County and grateful to everyone who plays a role in creating safe and welcoming communities for all.”
Delaware County extends sincere thanks to all who made this year’s events a success and encourages residents to stay engaged with community safety efforts year-round.
| | County Council, Haverford Police, Haverford Council, Department of Emergency Services, and Delaware County Citizen Corps at the Haverford Township National Night Out. |
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Delco Revive Provides CPR Certification to Former Crozer Employees and Community Members
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As part of Delaware County’s continued response to the closure of Crozer and Taylor Hospitals, the Delaware County Health Department’s Delco Revive initiative recently provided free CPR certification to 21 former Crozer Health employees who were left without critical training resources.
The participants—including nurses, nursing assistants, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals—had been displaced after Prospect Medical Holdings shuttered the hospitals earlier this year. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is a prerequisite for many healthcare positions, making access to these trainings essential for those seeking to reenter the workforce.
“Delaware County is committed to supporting the individuals and families impacted by the closure of Crozer Health,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “By helping these healthcare workers maintain their credentials, we’re not only aiding their career transitions—we’re strengthening the broader healthcare system that serves our community.”
The certification sessions were hosted by Delco Revive in partnership with Educational Data Systems, Inc. (EDSI), and took place on July 10 and July 16 at the Crozer Transition Center, a temporary service hub located at the Chester Police Department.
In addition to its work with displaced workers, Delco Revive continues to offer free CPR certification to community members across Delaware County. The program includes instruction on CPR for adults, children, and infants; use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs); and techniques for relieving choking—equipping everyday residents with the skills to respond to emergencies.
All 21 Crozer participants completed the training successfully.
| | Take Part, Spread the Word, Stay Connected | |
Last Weekend for the Summer Concert Series
Delaware County Parks & Recreation invites residents to celebrate this weekend as we wrap up the 50th Season of the Summer Concert Series. The award-winning concert ends Sunday, August 10, at Rose Tree Park. Admission and parking are free. Guests should bring blankets or chairs and enjoy a lively mix of barbershop quartet, reggae, and classic rock performances. [Check out the final lineup]
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DCHD to Hold 2nd Annual Back to School Fair: Donation Deadline is Friday, August 8
Delaware County’s Back-to-School Supply Drive ends August 8. Help students start strong by donating supplies at 30+ drop-off sites. Donations support the County’s August 16 Back-to-School Fair. Parents must register to receive school supplies! Visit DelcoPA.Gov/Health for donation locations and registration details.
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Free Box Fans Still Available for Seniors
Delaware County’s Office of Services for the Aging (COSA), in partnership with PECO, is offering free box fans to residents age 60 and older. To request a fan, or for information about COSA's many services and resources for seniors, call COSA at 610‑490‑1300. Supplies are limited, so don’t wait to call.
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Delco 10 Miler Coming This September
The Delco 10 Miler debuts this September with a scenic 10-mile course from Rose Tree Park to a stadium finish at Subaru Park, showcasing local pride, energy, and community spirit, followed by a lively celebration at Union Yards. Sign up and be part of this exciting new Delco tradition! [Click here to sign up]
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National Senior Citizens Day at Redwood Center
Join us for our National Senior Citizen Day celebration at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 21, at the Redwood Community Center in Brookhaven. Senior Jeopardy, prizes, light refreshments, and plenty of laughs — all free! To register, please contact Ellen Williams at williamse@co.delaware.pa.us or (610) 499-1937 and leave your name and a form of contact.
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Chester Waterfront Industrial Development Authority Board Opening
The Delaware County Chester Waterfront Industrial Development Authority seeks two new board members for five-year terms. The board provides oversight and serves as liaison between the County and the Philadelphia Union, owners of Subaru Park. Apply by August 29 at DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies.
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