During this season of gratitude, I like to reflect on the positive things happening around me.
This year, the Harvest Youth Board is once again hosting the W. Dan Prince III Thanksgiving Eve Dinner. Last year they served over 3,000 meals and are on track to repeat that this year. This large and logistically complex event is managed by 13 amazing local youth, their staff advisers, and hundreds of volunteers. I hope you all will be able to join us on Wednesday for some festive fun and food!
I’m also grateful for the progress our community is making. The last few weeks we had some major announcements of future projects such as the new YMCA, a potential amphitheater, and the big news that a 2,000 job manufacturer is moving on the border of Henry and Pittsylvania Counties at the Berry Hill Business Park.
In addition to these big projects, small ones are also underway, like the 6 (six) new Project Hope grants and the upcoming opening of the new fitness courts. These types of announcements and projects are strong indicators of a community on the rise and growing. They reflect an engaged community that is focused on the future.
With growth, there comes much potential but also much consideration for the type of growth a community desires. Both the City and the County have started or are about to start their Comprehensive Community Plans. The County kicked off its planning a few weeks ago (Find Out More) and the City will begin its process in 2025.
These are legally required plans, but they outline the community’s priorities and where public dollars should be invested. For MHC to grow the way in which you desire, the municipalities would be grateful for your ideas and suggestions. If you live in the county, please take its survey and find ways to share your ideas. If you live in the city, please watch for announcements for community input.
During this season of gratitude, please connect with those that you love and engage with your neighbors. The holiday season provides unique opportunities for us to come together and find ways for us to build a stronger future for us all.
