The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— October 18, 2024 (143rd edition) ——

With the 2024 school year underway, Delaware County is excited to introduce “ConnectED,” a rebranded and enhanced version of the School-Based Assessment Program (SBAP) soft-launched in the fall of 2023 by District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, Delaware County Council, and the Department of Human Services. This program is designed to radically improve the delivery of proactive, preventative mental health and substance use services for school-aged children.

ConnectED’s new name emphasizes the program’s mission to strengthen the connection between youth, parents, and educators through a comprehensive, school-based approach that fosters collaboration and engagement. ConnectED aims to bridge the gap between students, schools, and community behavioral health* resources, ensuring that students are connected to the support they need, when they need it.

“We are excited to see this program evolve,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “ConnectED represents our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for every student. This rebranding marks a significant step forward, strengthening our commitment to equitable behavioral health services across the County and connecting more families and students to the care and support they need.”

Continuing the School-Based Assessment Program’s Mission 

“ConnectED builds on the success of the School-Based Assessment Program by expanding our capacity to connect students and families to critical behavioral health resources,” said Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, who first proposed the idea of an integrated behavioral health program. “This initiative has already made a significant impact, and the rebrand reflects our commitment to making these essential services more accessible and effective for every student in Delaware County.”

The program continues SBAP’s mission to support children and families facing mental health challenges and potential substance use disorders, using a comprehensive ‘No Wrong Door’ approach. This means that all school personnel—from teachers to counselors, as well as parents, caretakers, and community members—are not only trained to recognize signs of mental health or substance use concerns, but also have direct, barrier-free access to the program’s resources and support. This ensures that every student can receive the help they need, no matter where they enter the system.

Additionally, the program will continue to employ the “Warm Handoff” (WHO) strategy, providing personalized support and seamless transitions to appropriate care for students and their families.

Warm Hand Offs and Early Intervention

ConnectED focuses on prevention and early intervention, ensuring that Delaware County youth receive timely support when needed. The program provides parents, caregivers, and educators the ability to speak to a live person 24/7, even for simple questions about resources or behavioral health concerns. When additional support is required, a dedicated and trained ConnectED Coordinator assesses the youth’s needs and personally introduces the student and their family to mental health professionals or community resources. 

"A ConnectED Coordinator triages the youth and links them to appropriate services in actual time,” said Shannon Fitzpatrick Thomas, the Healthy Kids Healthy Schools Administrator at the Department of Human Services. “This is what makes ConnectED stand out from our traditional mental health treatment and Student Assistance Programs, by providing an immediate warm hand off to the right door!”

ConnectED Program Coordinator

ConnectED’s dedicated Program Coordinator, a behavioral health professional, is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. In addition, the program also provides treatment linkage, education, support, and resources after hours. Calls are coordinated by the MVP Recovery 24/7 Peer Support Team, ensuring continuous assistance for students and families outside the regular schedule. MVP Recovery’s ConnectED program and their 24/7 Peer Support Team can be reached at 1-855-MVP-2410.

By deploying a Program Coordinator for in-person assessments and support directly within schools, throughout the community, or at students' homes, the initiative fosters a highly personalized and approachable model of care. This approach moves beyond conventional boundaries, ensuring that the diverse needs of students are addressed with sensitivity and flexibility.

MVP Recovery

MVP Recovery, a Delaware County-based behavioral health provider recognized as one of the most comprehensive state-licensed recovery programs in the region, is responsible for the program’s implementation. Over the past year, MVP Recovery has connected numerous school-aged youth to immediate inpatient drug and alcohol treatment, mental health treatment, and community supports such as Big Brothers Big Sisters.

“ConnectED will continue to cultivate a community where behavioral health is at the forefront, ensuring assistance is readily available,” said Brian Corson, Founder & CEO of MVP Recovery. “Providing 24/7 access to a Peer Support Team, including certified peer specialists, will offer substantial recovery and mental health support for both students and families throughout the County.”

* Behavioral Health refers to mental health and substance use disorders, life stressors and crises, and stress-related physical symptoms. Behavioral health care refers to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of those conditions. 

With the Nov. 5, 2024 General Election quickly approaching, Delaware County Elections is reminding residents of essential deadlines and introducing new tools to streamline voting.

Key Deadlines for Registration and Mail Ballots

Residents must register to vote or update their name or address by Mon., Oct. 21, 2024, to participate in this election. Eligible voters can register online at vote.pa.gov/register or visit the Delaware County Government Center in Media, open on Sat., Oct. 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, and Mon., Oct. 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The deadline to apply for mail-in or absentee ballots is Tue., Oct. 29, 2024, by 5:00 p.m.

Completed ballots can be returned by mail, at one of the County’s three dozen secure drop boxes, or in person at the drop box located at the Government Center Building in Media, conveniently located near the Voter Service Center located at 201 W. Front Street.

Note that all civilian ballots must be received by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 5.

New Ballot Tracking Tool

Delaware County has launched a mail/absentee ballot tracking tool to enhance transparency. This tool, available on the election results web page at DelcoPA.Gov/Results, provides near-real-time updates on ballot activity. It shows the total number of ballots sent out and received, including breakdowns of how mail-in/absentee ballots were returned—by USPS mail, at the drop box at the Government Center in Media, PA, or at any of the 36 community drop boxes located in dozens of municipalities across the County. 

“This new tool increases transparency by providing a pre-election, pre-canvass view of the total number of mail-in and absentee ballots sent out and those returned by voters—whether through USPS, the Government Center drop box, or one of the secure community drop boxes,” said James P. Allen, Director of Elections for Delaware County.

The totals will be refreshed frequently until all mail-in and absentee ballots cast by the Nov. 5, 2024, deadline are processed. This includes military and overseas absentee ballots, which must be submitted for delivery by 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 4 and received by the Bureau of Elections no later than 5:00 p.m. one week after Election Day.

Flawed Ballots and Curing Process

Delaware County Elections is reminding voters of the importance of correctly completing their mail/absentee ballots. Ballots must be properly sealed, signed, and dated to be counted. Common errors include missing or incorrect dates, unsigned envelopes, and “naked” ballots submitted without the required secrecy envelope.

If a ballot contains any of these flaws, state law requires it to be disqualified. The Bureau of Elections will attempt to notify voters of any issues, offering options to correct their ballot. Voters can either visit a Voter Service Center for assistance or cast a provisional ballot at their polling place on Election Day.

Those who need a replacement ballot must return it by 8:00 p.m. on Tue., Nov. 5 via mail or at a drop box. On Election Day, replacement ballot services will only be available at the Government Center in Media.

Expanded Voter Service Centers

To assist voters, Delaware County has expanded to four Voter Service Centers (VSCs):

• Media Voter Service Center: Government Center, 201 W. Front St., Media
• Upper Darby Township One Center: 100 Garrett Road, Upper Darby
• Chester City Hall: 1 E. 4th St., Chester
• Chester Heights Office Building: 53 W. Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills

The VSCs will be open Mon., Oct. 21 through Tues., Nov. 4, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, with Saturday hours from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Voters can register, request replacement ballots, or update their information at these centers. Please note that completed ballots cannot be submitted at VSCs and must be dropped off at a secure drop box or mailed.

For questions or assistance, residents are encouraged to call the Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE or visit the Delco Votes! election website at DelcoPA.Gov/Vote. 

Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor joined a distinguished lineup of business leaders, elected officials, and community partners on October 11 at the Airport Marriott for the City of Philadelphia’s 12th Annual Business Opportunity Forum (BOF).

The event, “Boarding Pass to 2026 and Beyond,” was the grand finale of Philadelphia’s 40th annual Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, underscoring the region’s commitment to expanding opportunities for diverse and minority-owned businesses.

The forum was attended by over 500 participants, including representatives from large firms, small businesses, and minority- and women-owned enterprises. In addition to Dr. Taylor, featured guests included Philadelphia Council President Kenyatta Johnson, Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, State Representative Regina Young, Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Joanna McClinton, and Senators Anthony Hardy Williams and Nikil Saval.

Through networking, panel discussions, and presentations, attendees explored ways to build sustainable and diverse partnerships with Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE).

Dr. Taylor emphasized the vital relationship between Delaware County and PHL, noting the airport’s $4.2 billion economic impact on the county and the 27,000 jobs it supports. "This collaboration extends far beyond just proximity," said Dr. Taylor. "Through local initiatives, apprenticeships, and community engagement, we are connecting our residents with meaningful pathways for success." She also highlighted PHL’s efforts to expand its cargo facilities in Delaware County, which will bring new job opportunities and growth to the region.

Throughout the forum, discussions focused heavily on equity and diversity initiatives. PHL CEO Atif Saeed shared insights from the airport's recent Economic Impact Study, which revealed that in Fiscal Year 2024, the airport achieved 32.5% participation in minority, women, and disadvantaged business contracts, totaling $45.6 million. Additionally, the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program achieved 38% participation, generating $94 million in gross receipts. The airport workforce is also a reflection of Philadelphia’s diversity, with 64% of its 17,000 employees identifying as Black, Hispanic, Asian, or other minority backgrounds.

Panel discussions provided valuable information on diversity initiatives, facilities management, construction, and guest services. The forum also spotlighted Delaware County’s own efforts to promote diversity and equity. Dr. Taylor noted the County’s partnership with the Philadelphia Chamber’s Diverse Procurement Collaborative Network, the expansion of small business loans, and mentorship programs through the Delaware County Economic Development Corporation. She also highlighted the County's Diversity Study, which is helping guide efforts to increase supplier diversity and ensure inclusion in procurement.

Looking ahead, the forum emphasized the importance of expanding opportunities for a diverse workforce as the region gears up for major events in 2026, including the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and America’s 250th birthday celebration. "The economic impact of these events will be felt across the entire region," Dr. Taylor said, "and by working together, we can ensure that everyone—especially minority- and women-owned businesses—has a chance to participate in this success."

The event concluded with a call to action for participants to take advantage of the resources and connections made during the forum. As the region prepares for 2026, both PHL and Delaware County remain committed to building stronger partnerships and creating a more inclusive, diverse business ecosystem.

Delaware County is set to receive $5,155,412.51 in December 2024, continuing its mission to combat the opioid epidemic that has deeply impacted residents, families, and the broader community. This funding is part of the County’s long-term plan, fueled by the 2022 national $26 billion opioid settlement with Johnson & Johnson, AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health, and McKesson. 

As part of this 18-year agreement, Delaware County will receive a total of $63 million in annual payments for opioid-related initiatives.

Organizations working to address the opioid crisis are encouraged to submit a grant proposal for the 2024 Opioid Settlement Funds. As a reminder, applications are due by October 25, 2024, and are open to healthcare providers, non-profits, vendors, educational institutions, and other groups focused on solutions to the opioid epidemic. This funding allows new applicants and current recipients of opioid settlement funds to continue or expand their programs related to the initiatives.  

Key Initiatives for 2024 Funding

Delaware County Council has identified four primary initiatives for the 2024 settlement funds:

1. Data Collection System: Develop a comprehensive system to monitor treatment resources and services, including available treatment beds. [RFP Details]
2. Ongoing Care for Infants Born Addicted: Provide long-term care for children born addicted to opioids, supporting families and caregivers throughout the child’s development. [RFP Details]
3. Public Health Campaign: Launch a County-wide campaign promoting harm reduction tools like Narcan and fentanyl test strips, emphasizing that harm reduction efforts carry no criminal penalties. [RFP Details] 
4. Strategic Plan for Long-term Fund Use: Create a strategic framework for managing opioid settlement funds over the coming years to ensure sustainable impact. [RFP Details]

“This funding provides a critical opportunity for organizations across Delaware County to expand or continue their efforts in combating the opioid crisis,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Through collaboration and innovative programs, we can make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by opioid addiction, fostering recovery and building a healthier future for our community.”

Apply Now

To learn more about the settlement and access grant applications, visit the Delaware County Opioid Settlement website at DelcoPA.Gov/Settlement. Organizations can submit applications online (Only electronic submissions via e-mail will be accepted) or reach out with questions to Kelly Bonner, Contract Administrator at bonnerkm@delcohsa.org. 

Delaware County remains committed to fighting the opioid crisis through collaboration, transparency, and targeted initiatives, ensuring these funds directly benefit those most affected.

More About the Opioid Settlement

On September 13, 2022, Delaware County Council announced a landmark $62.5 million settlement as part of a broader national resolution addressing the opioid epidemic. This historic settlement stemmed from legal actions taken by Delaware County, the state of Pennsylvania, and the District Attorney, aimed at holding pharmaceutical distributors Cardinal, McKesson, and AmerisourceBergen accountable for their role in the crisis.

The agreement is part of a $26 billion nationwide settlement that involves several pharmaceutical companies and distributors accused of fueling the opioid epidemic through deceptive practices. Delaware County will receive annual payments over an 18-year period, averaging $3.5 million annually. These funds are intended for specific programs and services designed to combat opioid misuse and mitigate the effects of addiction throughout the County.

2022 Funding Initiatives

In 2022, the County received $6.45 million in initial payments from the settlement. These funds were allocated strategically across various community programs, including prevention, harm reduction, and recovery services. Some early recipients of this funding included:

• Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP): Programs for children/families 
• American Treatment Network: Establishing an opioid crisis response center
• MVP Recovery: Start-Up for a medication-assisted treatment program
• Widener University and St. Joseph’s University: Developing opioid education programs targeting healthcare professionals, students, and K-12 students
• Savage Sisters Recovery: Providing recovery housing and outreach programs

Other initiatives focused on Naloxone distribution, targeted case management for pregnant women and mothers, and transportation services for individuals in recovery. Delaware County also directed funding towards the acquisition of LUCAS chest compression devices to improve emergency medical response.

Given the complexity of rolling out multiple programs, the County requested and received an extension on the original deadline for fund usage. As of August 2024, all but approximately $608,000 of the 2022 allocation had been spent, with additional programs scheduled to wrap up by December 30, 2024.

2023 Funding and Expansion

The 2023 allocation provided $4.15 million for new and continuing efforts to address opioid-related issues. This round of funding was shaped by extensive public input gathered through town hall meetings, roundtable discussions, and engagement with community stakeholders.

Programs funded in 2023 aimed to build on the previous year’s efforts, introducing new recovery stabilization programs, public education campaigns, and enhanced certified recovery specialist services in emergency rooms. Notable recipients included:

• Amistad Law Project: Community Recovery Center 
• Maternity Care Coalition: Supporting families impacted by opioid addiction
• Savage Sisters Recovery: Prevention education programs 

The County also approved funding for a coordinator role to oversee the administration and impact of these programs.

Looking Ahead

The opioid crisis remains a serious challenge, but Delaware County’s strategic use of settlement funds is already making a difference—expanding treatment access, supporting recovery programs, and saving lives. With future allocations, the County will continue investing in evidence-based solutions to strengthen communities, protect vulnerable populations, and offer pathways to recovery for those in need. These efforts reflect the County’s unwavering commitment to building a healthier future for all residents.

This week, Delaware County Sheriff Jerry L. Sanders, Jr., honored two members of his department—Deputies Ciera Marsh and Patrick Quinn—for their quick and courageous response during a life-threatening emergency on September 20.

While transporting multiple incarcerated individuals from Norristown State Hospital to the George W. Hill Correctional Facility along Interstate 476 North, the deputies encountered a vehicle fully engulfed in flames, with no emergency responders yet on the scene. Without hesitation, they activated their emergency lights and sirens to close the right lane, ensuring the safety of passing motorists.

The deputies promptly contacted emergency services, verified that no individuals were inside the burning vehicle, and escorted the driver and a bystander to a safe distance from the blaze. They remained on-site until additional emergency personnel arrived to manage the situation, ensuring everyone’s safety before continuing their transport mission.

Sheriff Sanders presented Certificates of Recognition to both deputies during this week’s County Council meeting, commending their professionalism and bravery. “The deputies' professionalism, quick thinking, and dedication to public safety are a testament to the high standards of Delaware County law enforcement,” Sanders remarked. “Their actions in this intense situation demonstrate the commitment and courage we expect from those who serve our community.”

Delaware County Council recognizes the critical role of law enforcement in ensuring public safety, with officers like Deputies Marsh and Quinn exemplifying the vigilance, service, and bravery needed to protect the public and build trust within the community. Council also thanks the Sheriff for recognizing his staff and fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.

Pictured, left to right: Delaware County Sheriff Jerry L. Sanders, Jr., Deputy Patrick Quinn, Deputy Sierra Marsh, and Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Michellene Conte

The Delaware County Health Department reminds Delaware County residents that knowing how to use NARCAN® Nasal Spray could save the life of a loved one or stranger during an opioid overdose emergency. NARCAN is designed to quickly reverse the effects of opioid overdoses—whether from prescription pain medications or illegal opioids—and is safe to use even if opioids are not present.

To help residents be prepared, the Delco Revive program, coordinated by the Health Department, offers a step-by-step video tutorial on how to administer NARCAN Nasal Spray. Watch the tutorial on the County's YouTube channel, linked below.

For additional free resources or to register for a NARCAN training session, visit www.delcorevive.com. You can also reach the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or email DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Be prepared. You could save a life.

Click to watch our short tutorial demonstrating how to administer NARCAN

Over 50 Employers Actively Hiring Across Multiple Sectors

As a reminder, PA CareerLink® Delaware County, in partnership with Delaware County Workforce Development, will be holding its Fall Hiring Fest on Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Springfield YMCA, located at 194 W. Sproul Road, in Springfield.

The event is open to all job seekers, and walk-ins are welcome!

For those who prefer to pre-register, you can skip the manual registration line, receive reminder emails, and gain access to work-ready workshops and future opportunities. Job seekers will also receive a list of featured employers participating in the event.

Over 50 Employers!

The Hiring Fest will feature over 50 employers actively hiring for a wide range of positions, including full-time, part-time, and seasonal opportunities.

Participating employers include A Place At Home, Aloaye Home Healthcare Agency LLC, Always Best Care, American Wood Design, AmeriHealth Caritas, Army, Associates Home Care, Inc. / MCC Family Services, Inc., Bayada Home Health Care, Childcare Careers, Choice Party Linens, Community Integrated Services, Community Interactions, Connecting the Pieces, County of Delaware, Crozer Health Medical Group, Delaware County Intermediate Unit, Drexelbrook Catering, Dunwoody Village, Eagle Staffing Company, EDSI, Elle & Me Developmental and Behavioral Services, LLC, Elwyn, Emmaus Home, Inc., ESS, Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union, Garrett Williamson, GEHR Plastics, Inc., Granny’s Helping Hands, Hands From The Heart Home Healthcare, Harrah’s Philadelphia, Healing Helpers Home Care, Integrated Deicing Services, JP Mascaro & Sons, Lima Estates, Marquis Health Consulting Services, My Independence at HOME, Oliver Heating & Cooling, PA Department of Corrections, Quality Angels Home Care Agency, Rose Tree Media School District, Safe Corridors, Serenity Care Resources LLC, SERVPRO, Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, Smith Flooring Inc., Springfield Country Club, Substitute Teacher Service Inc., The Children’s Ark at St. George’s, Transwall Office Systems, TruMark Financial CU, TruVine Homecare & Staffing Services, Inc., and Upper Darby School District.

This is a fantastic opportunity for job seekers to connect with top local employers. Attendees are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resumes, as on-site interviews may be held, and same-day hiring could occur for qualified candidates.

Don't miss this chance to find your next career opportunity and network with local businesses!

Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor recently joined Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Trish McFarland and her Chamber team at the Llanerch Country Club to celebrate outstanding leadership at this year’s ATHENA Leadership Luncheon. Sponsored annually by the Chamber, this year the event honored Peg DeGrassa, a journalist whose career has made a significant impact on Delaware County through storytelling, mentorship, and community engagement.

Since 1982, ATHENA International has honored more than 8,200 leaders across 500 regions and 11 countries. The prestigious ATHENA Awards recognize individuals who exemplify the Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership—fostering collaboration, authenticity, courage, and community service.

County Council and the Delaware County Chamber takes great pride in joining ATHENA International to champion women excelling in leadership each year, celebrating individuals who empower others and open doors of opportunity. With 37 recipients since 1989, the ATHENA Award has become a local tradition, recognizing leaders who embody the mission of empowering women and fostering inclusive leadership.

Recipients have included influential figures like Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Billie Jean King, alongside local champions, highlighting the importance of both global and community impact.

Honoring Peg DeGrassa’s Remarkable Career

DeGrassa’s career spans over 45 years, serving as a reporter for Delaware County Daily Times, Sunday Times, and The Springfield Press, the editor of Town Talk Newspapers, Springfield Press, Garnet Valley Press, County Press, and News of Delaware County. and a contributing feature writer for other leading publications in the region. Her writing and editorial leadership have become cornerstones of the Delaware County community, elevating everyday voices and connecting readers to meaningful stories. Beyond her journalism, Peg has served as a mentor and advocate for young professionals, exemplifying the qualities of an ATHENA leader.

Reflecting on her storytelling, Peg shared, “Living here my entire life and writing for the Delco papers for so many years, allows me to get a feel for the news that's important to readers. For me, the most important stories that I've written were the ones that made a difference in the community or in a person's life.”

“Peg DeGrassa is someone who truly embodies the Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership, which are the foundation of this prestigious award,” said Dr. Taylor. “These principles aren't just words; they reflect the legacy she’s built over 45 years, showing excellence, creativity, and initiative in every facet of her career.”

“Peg's unparalleled dedication to journalism and her unwavering commitment to our community exemplify the spirit of leadership and excellence that this award represents,” said Chamber of Commerce President McFarland. “Her tireless efforts to highlight local stories and support the diverse voices of Delaware County have made an indelible impact. Her legacy of empowering others and championing local causes truly sets a remarkable standard for us all.”

Empowering Future Leaders Through the ATHENA Model

Founded by Martha Mertz, a pioneering advocate for women's leadership, ATHENA International promotes a unique leadership model based on the Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership:

• Live Authentically & Learn Constantly
• Build Relationships & Foster Collaboration
• Act Courageously & Advocate Fiercely
• Give Back & Celebrate

These principles foster a collaborative and empowering leadership style, breaking away from traditional command-and-control models. The ATHENA Awards not only honor past achievements but also encourage future generations to lead with empathy, inclusiveness, and courage.

For more information about the ATHENA Leadership Awards and the Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership, visit the ATHENA International website.

Congratulations Peg!

This past week, numerous Delaware County Libraries (DCL) staff members attended the Pennsylvania Library Association Annual Conference in Harrisburg, PA, showcasing the innovative and impactful work of local librarians. The event served as a vibrant forum for education, networking, and professional collaboration among libraries across the state.

“This year's conference demonstrated how libraries continue to evolve, acting as spaces where ideas flourish and communities thrive,” said Anny Laepple, Delaware County Director of Library Services. “I'm incredibly proud of our libraries for leading the way with innovative programs that engage, educate, and empower Delaware County residents.”

Attendees had opportunities to learn from fellow librarians, connect with vendors, and explore the latest industry products and services during the two-day Library Products & Services Expo. The conference offered numerous sessions, poster presentations, and keynotes designed to inspire new ideas and foster collaboration.

Delaware County Presentations at the Conference

• Haverford Township Free Library. Mary Bear Shannon and Celia Adams presented Mind Matters: Promoting Mental Health & Well-Being at the Library.
• Marple Public Library. Bridgette Crockett led Seeds and More at the Library, highlighting community gardening initiatives.
• Sharon Hill Public Library. Richard E. Ashby Jr. engaged attendees with Empowering Young Readers with Multicultural Literature.
• Radnor Memorial Library. Carrie Sturgill presented The Organized Librarian: Time-Management Strategies for Efficiency.
• DCL Administrative Headquarters. Jason Braham, Theresa Dykes, and Kristin Suda introduced The Library at Your Fingertips: Launching the DelcoReads App.

Additionally, Theresa Dykes co-presented From Creatively Challenged to Creatively Confident: Using Canva AI Tools, which highlighted the importance of creative resources in libraries.

A Commitment to Community Engagement

The diverse topics explored at this year's conference reflect Delaware County Libraries’ dedication to community engagement and literacy. The sessions not only showcased innovative programs already thriving within Delaware County but also provided fresh ideas and strategies for continued growth and impact.

The conference proved to be an excellent opportunity for learning, networking, and fostering collaboration among professionals while also strengthening connections with current and potential vendors.

Congratulations to all the DCL presenters for representing Delaware County and sharing their insights with the broader library community!

Check Out Delaware County Libraries' New Website

The Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) of Delaware County, Inc., along with Delaware County Council and the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, invite the public to join A Tribute to Survivors & Victims of Domestic Violence on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 12 noon in front of the Delaware County Courthouse, 201 W. Front St., in Media.

This event is part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and supporting efforts to prevent intimate partner violence. In the U.S., nearly one in four women and one in seven men experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime, highlighting the need for action and community support.

Each year, thousands seek refuge and services from organizations like DAP, but many requests for shelter and assistance still go unmet due to limited resources.

Featured speakers at the event are to include U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, PA State Senator Amanda Cappelletti, PA State Representatives Lisa Borowski, Gina H. Curry, Jennifer O’Mara, and Regina Young, as well as Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. Together, they will honor survivors, offer support, and encourage the community to get involved with DAP.

DAP provides crucial services, including emergency shelter, legal support, and advocacy. Delaware County Council and the District Attorney’s Office urge residents to learn more about DAP’s work and join efforts to prevent domestic violence by attending the event or connecting with DAP for volunteer and support opportunities.

For questions, contact info@dapdc.org.

Boo! It’s that time of year again when ghosts come out to play, pumpkins glow with spooky grins, and Delco transforms into a Halloween wonderland. Whether you’re chasing thrills in haunted houses, carving the perfect pumpkin, or just looking for a family-friendly trick-or-treat, Delaware County has something for everyone this season.

From terrifying hayrides to delightful pumpkin patches, we’ve gathered the best events to ensure your October is filled with frights and fun. So grab your costume, gather your courage, and dive into our list of spine-tingling activities to make the most of Halloween in Delco!

Delaware County Council thanks Visit Delco, PA, for putting together the following list of attractions. Be sure to visit their website for more seasonal fun for both residents and visitors alike!

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