By definition a transformation is a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance. And in Sullivan County, one of the biggest reasons for the positive transformation that has taken place during the last two decades is the work of one outstanding group and resource to the place we call home.

Twenty years ago, Sullivan Renaissance was founded through the generosity of the Gerry family. While some questioned what beautification efforts could do to turn things around for a county which was still rebounding from the closure of several major hotels in the decades prior, their staff kept pushing ahead and soon the number of volunteers grew.

And now in 2020, Sullivan Renaissance celebrates yet another milestone anniversary. What began as something simple has become an unstoppable vehicle of positive change. Renaissance's transformation of our region is not only reflected in the bevy of projects they've completed, but also what isn't seen on the surface ... the change in mindset, leading to more people thinking positively about where they live and wanting to make a difference in their communities. Rather than complain about our area's setbacks, people are motivated to become a part of the solution.

Throughout the year we will be partnering with Renaissance on a series looking back at some of the most significant projects they've completed since their inception.

But first and foremost, the celebration begins when Sullivan Renaissance hosts the G2R (Get Ready to Renaissance) Winter Symposium at the CVI Building in Liberty on Wednesday, January 8 at 5:30 p.m.

The symposium will present resources for a successful Renaissance project; complemented by workshops focused on fundraising, marketing, gardening, and recruiting volunteers. The event is critical for anyone looking to apply for project funding in 2020. Grant applications will be available at the event.

The symposium offers the chance to hear from several community leaders and volunteers about the impact of Renaissance projects over the last two decades.

A special presentation will be given by Leah Exner, a Fallsburg school teacher, who will tell the story of the Nature Trail at Benjamin Cosor Elementary School and how to leverage a Sullivan Renaissance grant for additional funding, partnerships, helping hands, and raw materials.

There will also be a choice of workshops guests can attend after the program.

?The free event will also feature networking, refreshments and a resource expo.

It should be noted, however, that registration is required.

For more information about Sullivan Renaissance or about the symposium, visit www.sullivanrenaissance.org or call (845) 295-2445.

We are proud to be an ally to Renaissance, and look forward to seeing what else we can all accomplish by continuing to work together for the next 20 years and beyond.