Organic: developing or progressing naturally, without forced or planned actions. A relationship that unfolds gradually and authentically, based on genuine connection and mutual interest.
One of the things I appreciate most about Mount Gretna is how our community's diverse passions and skills naturally give rise to wonderful grassroots groups. These organic collaborations—some recently formed, others decades in the making—help make our community the special place it is.
Making Our Spaces Beautiful
The Gretna Gardeners and Soldiers Field Brigade are all about bringing beauty to our shared spaces. Spearheaded by Frank & Lorrie Gentile and John Weaver, you'll often see many of the same dedicated faces in both groups.
These all-volunteer teams have become a real force in improving our Chautauqua grounds and Soldiers Field. From weeding and removing invasives to planting seeds for a wildflower meadow, their work is everywhere you look. Most recently, they planted an impressive 1,500 perennials—25 different varieties in all—around the Lodge (Porch & Pantry), Borough office, and Post Office. All this activity has kept the groups busy while fostering lasting friendships.
And let’s not forget the community herb garden, near the tennis courts, spearheaded by Lorrie Gentile and Sandy Moritz. Check it out if you haven’t already; this is a culinary resource for the whole community.
Music That Brings Us Together
The Mount Gretna Music Collective, organized by Tom Cook, Chris Kiehne, and Deb Simpson, embraces multiple musical projects including a marching band, sing-alongs, open mikes, house concerts, and a pop/rock band called the Small Frogs.
They're open to expanding into other activities like poetry slams, choral groups, or contra dancing—they just need volunteers to step forward and lead. With a few exceptions like the marching band, their activities happen in the off-season, ensuring they complement rather than compete with our other marvelous summer programming.
The marching band is currently looking for brass and reed players of all levels—beginners welcome!
Discovering Our Natural Neighbors
What do you get when you have lots of trees and lots of birds? The Mount Gretna Bird Club, which meets year-round on Friday mornings in the Chautauqua parking lot.
Led by Sid Hostetter, the group welcomes all levels of birding knowledge. Don't know a cardinal from a blue jay? No worries—binoculars can be provided. Favorite birding spots include the Chautauqua side of the lake shore, the old mill fields on Route 241, and the former National Guard rifle range.
Warmth for the Community
Gretna Spirit Firewood, led by Don Kensinger and Don Bowman, brings together energetic individuals who cut, split, and offer seasoned hardwood for a suggested donation. You can see the impressive results of their dedication stacked by the tennis courts. Proceeds benefit various community organizations and causes, extending their impact throughout Mount Gretna.
The Broader Tapestry
These groups join many others that started with just two or three folks sharing a common interest. Some are fairly recent, like Friends of Governor Dick or Mount Gretna Magazine (recently launched by Stacy Schroeder), while others are celebrating 50+ years of service, such as the Outdoor Art Show and Gretna Music.
I’m personally grateful for the Community Library. It was launched when a group of volunteers took an unappealing building and turned it into a welcoming, charming place of literary delights. Its committee is current comprised of Meagan Cassel, Pat Brosious, Sally Marisic, Marcie Lloyd, Vincie McMullen, and Joan Sherman. So reach out to any of them if you have questions or want to get involved.
You might be surprised by just how many organizations call our community home—you can see the full list HERE.
The Beauty of Organic Growth
What strikes me most about these groups is how naturally they emerge from genuine connections and shared interests. No central planning committee decided we needed a marching band or a birding club—they simply grew from residents who saw possibilities and invited others to join them.
This organic approach creates something special: groups that are sustainable because they're powered by genuine passion; inclusive because they welcome all skill levels; and resilient because they adapt to their members' evolving interests and availability.
As we navigate bigger community decisions about our future, these grassroots collaborations remind us of what makes Mount Gretna truly special—not just our beautiful setting, but our willingness to roll up our sleeves and create something wonderful together.
Have an idea for a new group or activity? The evidence suggests that if you start small and invite others to join, amazing things can happen organically right here in our little corner of paradise.