This summer, Downingtown is putting love on display! Literally.
In celebration of Good Neighbor Day, the heart of town will be adorned with bold red hearts, each carrying personal messages of gratitude, admiration, and community spirit. The initiative, led by the Thorndale-Downingtown Rotary Club, aims to unite the community while raising vital funds for local Fire and EMS companies.
From the week before to the week after July 4th, Lancaster Avenue, Green Street, Pennsylvania Avenue, and Kerr Park will bloom with heartfelt tributes. Whether it’s a note of thanks to a neighbor, a shout-out to a favorite local business, or a cheer for runners in the GND Run for Life Races, each heart will proudly hang from town lampposts, spreading joy and recognition throughout Downingtown.
A Love-Fueled Idea with Local Roots
Inspired by a similar project from the Penn Square Lancaster Rotary, the Thorndale-Downingtown Rotary Club has been eager to find a meaningful way to connect the community. With Downingtown’s deep-rooted pride and strong sense of local support, the heart project felt like a perfect fit. While the club dreams of expanding the initiative into Thorndale in the future, its success depends on community participation.
“Some might ask why we didn’t wait for Valentine’s Day,” said the club via the GND website. “But Good Neighbor Day brings everyone out onto the streets, walking, running, celebrating. What better time to showcase the love that already lives here?”
How to Order
Each heart can be customized with a short message, and templates are available to help craft the perfect tribute. Hearts designated to support race participants will be placed along the race route (while space allows), creating a unique cheering section for runners.
Important note: The order form allows for one heart per submission, so individuals wishing to purchase multiple hearts should complete the form multiple times.
ORDER DEADLINE: Tuesday, June 8, 2025, at 5 PM
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something special. Whether you’re honoring a hero, cheering on a runner, or simply spreading positivity, your message will help light up Downingtown one heart at a time.
For more information or to order your heart, visit Good Neighbor Day.
*All article photos belong to the Thorndale-Downingtown Rotary Club.
Read about the moving tribute the Downingtown Football team gave to a local widower here.
