Monfredo: Worcester…A City on the Move

Thursday, July 24, 2014

John Monfredo, GoLocalWorcester MINDSETTER™

Just what does make the city of Worcester special? This question was asked by GoLocalWorcester in this week’s edition. Having lived in Worcester all my life, I have seen the ups and downs take place in our city but I have to say we are definitely moving forward.

The citizens of Worcester make this city special, for so many individuals continue to reach out to those in need to lend a helping hand. The private and public schools have increased their commitment to community service by assisting those in need. An example is at South High School in Worcester, where the school has a food pantry and a clothing store called “Andy’s Attic” to serve not only the students at the high school but students across the state.

Staying with the schools, let’s look how the many colleges and universities in Worcester that have stepped up to assist the community by supporting the public library, granting scholarships to local students, supporting the public schools, and using their knowledge to design projects with the city. We have over twelve top notch colleges in Worcester and that speaks volumes about opportunities for our city’s students.

We have many leaders who have been passionate about their city and have provided the necessary leadership that has made a difference. Some of the leaders who come to mind are Jordan Levy, Ray Mariano and Tim Murray.

We also need to look at the many businesses that have stepped up to keep us moving in the right direction. One is Hanover Insurance, for they not only support the Hanover Theater but they have had their hands in many worthwhile community projects. In addition, they give generously to the Worcester Public Schools AVID program, a program that targets students in the academic middle who have the desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard.

Worcester is blessed with good healthcare and excellent hospitals. We have UMass medical center that is also a center for health research and an excellent training center for new doctors and nurses.

As an urban center, our schools do have a very diverse population that serves as a positive for our city, for the city represents the “real world.” We have over 82 different languages spoken in our schools but the aim is the same- a quality education for all. Outstanding museums are also here in Worcester. The Worcester Art Museum and the Worcester Historical Museum are two well known museums that have wonderful exhibits.

Our city is blessed with many religious groups and many social agencies that are active members of this community. We value safety in the community and have a good police and fire department. Our taxes are reasonable and there are good homes for families looking to settle into a city that cares about its children.

The bottom line is that Worcester is special for these reasons, with the emphasis on its citizens from all walks in life who do what they can to make this city the best that it can be. I end with this quote, “Never underestimate the difference YOU can make in the lives of others. Step forward, reach out and help. This week reach to someone who might need a lift”

― Pablo