The majority of residents who responded to a recent Malvern community survey said that attracting new businesses to the area should be a top goal for community leaders. We agree with the importance of that action, but we also know that local residents must be willing to shop locally and support our local businesses for them to stay viable.

The Malvern Community Development Fund and the Brown Township Trustees are pleased to be major sponsors of this new Malvern - Brown Township Business Directory and Community Calendar. The Directory lists more than a hundred local businesses that want and need your support. We urge you to read the listings from front to back and acquaint yourself with the goods and services that are available in the Malvern - Brown Township area.

We are fortunate to have many strong and viable community organizations. They rely on fund raising projects to support the important work they do in our community. Please look over the monthly calendars and make a decision to attend local programs and support local events when possible. Or, better yet, consider joining a community organization and volunteer your time to make our community an even better place to live.

Many of the area improvements are the result of volunteer efforts. Volunteers are always needed for projects like: planting and watering the Village flower planters, decorating the Christmas Trees, ringing the bell at the Malvern Rotary/Salvation Army Kettle, volunteering at Dancing on the Bridge and many other fund raising and community projects. To learn how you can become involved, call Susan Joyce at 330-863-1316.