Come celebrate the region with good friends, local food, and incredible views!

The South Mountain Partnership hosts the Annual “Power of the Partnership” Celebration each year, with more than 100 people in attendance. It is a time of celebrating the protection and promotion of this wonderful place that we all call home – the farms and farmland, historic places, water and air quality, wildlife and habitat, and parks, trails, and open spaces.

This year, we’re excited to host you in the beautiful northern York County venue Whispering Pines Estate, offering a lunch menu, inspirational speakers, and an opportunity to connect and celebrate with friends and colleagues new and old.

Recent progress and successes, as well as tried and true examples, will be shared by guest speakers. We will celebrate conservation successes in the region by revealing the first ever ‘State of the Region’ Report Card, awarding of grants, and the “Spirit of South Mountain.” York County Planning Commission will highlight the lessons and successes of the recently launched Open Space and Land Preservation Program. Keynote speakers will speak to the power of our region’s outdoor recreation economy and how groups and local governments throughout the region can strategically position to make the most of their opportunities. Nathan Reigner, Director of the newly launched PA Office of Outdoor Recreation has a rapidly developing state perspective, while Silas Chamberlin, Chief Strategy Officer of York Area Economic Alliance will share York County examples and lessons. These two are sure to be a dynamic duo live! 

Tickets are $28 person and include a delicious hot lunch.

Come celebrate with us!

Support the Event with Sponsorship.

This year, we unveil the inaugural State of the Region Report Card, part of a multi-year effort that assesses the health of our treasured region and identifies trends, projects, actions, and purposeful choices that have the power to preserve and enhance our South Mountain communities as an ideal place to live, work, and play for generations to come.

“Power of the Partnership” gatherings are valued for their reflection of our mission – warm, meaningful engagement, networking with like-minded individuals and organizations whose purpose intersect at SMP’s mission, a gorgeous outdoor setting, and locally sourced and crafted fare, beverages, and artisan offerings. New this year, a giftboard will be offered to guests along with a recyclable “Choice Keeper” tote. Guests will be invited to choose favors among local produce, products, and samplings.

As an organization deeply connected to the health of the land and its people, we invite you to partner with South Mountain Partnership to host this gathering. Doing so ensures the event is open to all who share in our vision and supports fair compensation for our local artisans, farmers, and chefs. We have opportunities to support from $250-$1500.

Program 

11:00 am | Connections Across the Landscape
Connect with colleagues old and new while participating in networking opportunities, interactive art exhibits, and exploring the beautiful venue.

12:00 noon | Lunch
Enjoy a high-quality catered lunch sourced from local farmers and growers.

1:00 pm – 2:30 pm | Welcome & Guest Speakers
York County Commissioners and Generous Sponsors to Welcome
Katie Hess | South Mountain Partnership

Nathan Reigner, PA DCNR  | Silas Chamberlin, York County Economic Alliance
Anne Walko and Wade Gobrecht |York County Planning  

Celebrate Accomplishments
Celebrate the network’s achievements and learn about the “State of the Region Report Card” in its first public reveal.

Grant Awards
Over $50,000 of grants funds will be awarded to exciting projects that partners are undertaking in 2024 as recipients of South Mountain Mini-Grants and Flex Grants.

Spirit of South Mountain Award
Who will be awarded this distinction that recognizes individuals, projects, or organizations that have gone above and beyond to advance a positive future for the South Mountain landscape? Join us to see!