Dynamic duo: Hannah and Haily Ryan were named Volunteers of the Year for helping a park cleanup last November. SOURCE: SOPHIA PRYSZLAK
The Friends of Pleasant Hill Park is still a very young organization, but it’s already inspiring the spirit of community service in some local folks. During the group’s inaugural public meeting on Feb. 25, it recognized two young sisters for their volunteerism.
Hannah and Haily Ryan were named Volunteers of the Year for helping the Friends during a park cleanup last November.
The Ryans had ventured to the East Torresdale park that day with their father for a day of fishing in the recently renovated “fish hatchery” ponds on Linden Avenue near Milnor Street. But when they saw other volunteers raking leaves and cleaning debris, they decided to help out instead.
“That’s the true spirit of being a volunteer and loving your park,” said Sophia Pryszlak, the Friends president.
Hannah and Haily each received a certificate of appreciation, a commemorative lapel pin and a $20 gift certificate to a local store.
The Friends of Pleasant Hill Park will host another public cleanup event on Saturday, May 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in conjunction with the city’s Love Your Park Week. Visit the group’s Facebook page for information. ••
