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Honoring and celebrating the meaningful work conducted by the Friends of the Wissahickon, for 100 years of service to the City of Philadelphia, The Wissahickon Valley Park, and the surrounding areas.
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WHEREAS, In 1921, an array of neighbors, equestrians, and hikers, successfully protested the opening of Forbidden Drive through Wissahickon Park. Two years later, a storm damaged approximately 200 trees, which resulted in neighbors rallying to address damages; and
WHEREAS, In 1924, the Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) was formed as a group of neighbors and all other individuals who saw the Wissahickon as a ‘gem of a place,’ and wanted to preserve its natural beauty and gain traction among the public; and
WHEREAS, The Friends of the Wissahickon, a partner to Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, fundraised and gathered volunteers without an office, phone, staff, or publications for decades. In the 1930s, Valley Green Inn was restored thanks to the fundraising done by the Friends of the Wissahickon; and
WHEREAS, In 1992, with Dave Pope as the President of the Friends of the Wissahickon, the group grew traction, acquired more resources, and managed major projects. In 2002, the William Penn Foundation provided the group with a grant of $280,000, which allowed this group to hire full time staff; and
WHEREAS, The Friends of the Wissahickon has now grown to a staff of 13 and a community of volunteers extending to over 1000 individuals who selflessly dedicate their time to park upkeep. In total, the Friends of the Wissahickon has over 3000 members and just took in $2.3 million in 2022; and
WHEREAS, On Saturday, April 20th, 2024, Friends of the Wissahickon hosted a “Super Mega” service day as a part of their 100-year celebration. Volunteers all across the park worked together to tackle invasive plants, clean storm water drains, tidy up trials, and pick up litter; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors the continuing work and effort of the Friends of the Wissahickon for 100 years of service to Wissahickon Valley Park and to the City of Philadelphia.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Friends of the Wissahickon as a sign of the admiration and respect of this legislative body.
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