PA Humanities Welcomes Johnsonburg and Ridgway as Our Newest Heart & Soul Communities

PA Humanities is thrilled to announce Johnsonburg and Ridgway as the newest boroughs to join our growing network of PA Heart & Soul communities – bringing our total to 17 participating regions across Pennsylvania.

This exciting new collaboration will see the neighboring boroughs of Johnsonburg and Ridgway, often grouped regionally but proudly unique, working hand in hand to engage local residents in shaping a shared future. Through the four-phase Community Heart & Soul process, both communities will actively gather stories, identify values, and build an inclusive, resident-driven action plan tailored to the region’s needs and aspirations. 

Located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Ridgway, established in 1881, has long been a vibrant hub of natural recreation and civic life. Just down the road, Johnsonburg, incorporated in 1891, has played a pivotal economic role for over a century thanks to its historic paper mill. While distinct in personality, the two boroughs, home to a combined population of 6,468, share common priorities and a strong sense of regional identity.

Community Heart & Soul values local voices, strengthens community ties, and lays the foundation for sustainable development—encouraging residents to lead the way toward a future that reflects what matters most to them.

This project is made possible through funding from PA Humanities in collaboration with Community Heart & Soul. Each borough has also pledged $5,000 to support the project, reinforcing their commitment to this transformative process.

For 10 years, PA Humanities has proudly served as the only statewide partner of Community Heart & Soul, offering support via resident training and community coaching to a thriving network of engaged communities. 

We’re proud to welcome Johnsonburg and Ridgway boroughs to the growing PA Heart & Soul family – and to support them as they embark on this journey. To learn more about their effort, visit the Johnsonburg-Ridgway Heart & Soul Facebook page here.