-
Ridley Park leader Nick Miccarelli says stronger communities begin with local involvement, volunteerism, and a renewed commitment to civic participation.
RIDLEY PARK, Pa., Jul 10, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — Nick Miccarelli, CEO of DELGO Community Transit, Pennsylvania Army National Guard Staff Sergeant, and former Pennsylvania State Representative, is encouraging residents to become more involved in their local communities as volunteer participation and civic engagement continue to decline across the United States.
.jpeg)
Drawing on decades of experience in military service, public office, nonprofit leadership, and community development, Miccarelli believes many of today’s social and civic challenges can be addressed through stronger local involvement and grassroots action.
“People often look for large-scale solutions to community problems, but meaningful change usually starts at the local level,” said Miccarelli. “When neighbors know each other, volunteer together, and participate in community organizations, communities become more resilient and better prepared to face challenges.”
According to research from AmeriCorps and the U.S. Census Bureau, formal volunteering has declined in recent years, with millions fewer Americans participating in volunteer activities compared to previous decades. Civic organizations, local nonprofits, veterans groups, and community associations have also reported challenges recruiting younger generations to become actively involved.
Miccarelli believes reversing that trend is important for the long-term health of communities.
“We live in a time when people are more connected digitally than ever before, yet many communities are experiencing less face-to-face engagement,” he said. “Local organizations need people willing to contribute their time, skills, and energy. That involvement creates stronger neighborhoods and stronger relationships.”
Throughout his career, Miccarelli has remained committed to community service beyond his professional responsibilities. Following Hurricane Katrina, he founded the Hurricane Katrina Sister Town Project, a grassroots initiative designed to support communities affected by one of the most devastating natural disasters in American history.
The experience reinforced his belief that local action can create meaningful results.
“That project showed me what can happen when ordinary people decide to help,” Miccarelli said. “No one involved was waiting for permission. People saw a need and stepped forward. Communities are capable of incredible things when individuals take ownership.”
In addition to his role at DELGO Community Transit, Miccarelli serves on the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum and remains active with organizations including the Friends of Senator John Heinz Wildlife Refuge, First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry, and Saint Madeline’s Roman Catholic Church.
He says one of the biggest misconceptions about community involvement is that it requires a major commitment of time or resources.
“Many people think they need to start a nonprofit or lead a large project to make a difference,” Miccarelli said. “The reality is that small actions matter. Volunteering a few hours a month, mentoring a young person, helping a veteran, attending a local meeting, or supporting a community event can have a meaningful impact.”
Miccarelli is encouraging residents to consider practical ways to become more engaged, including:
-
Volunteering with local nonprofits and community organizations
-
Supporting veterans and military families
-
Participating in civic meetings and local government discussions
-
Mentoring students and young professionals
-
Assisting senior citizens and residents with mobility challenges
-
Supporting environmental and conservation initiatives
-
Joining local service clubs, faith-based organizations, or neighborhood groups
He believes community engagement benefits both those receiving support and those providing it.
“When people become involved locally, they gain a stronger understanding of the challenges their neighbors face,” Miccarelli said. “They also develop relationships, leadership skills, and a greater sense of connection to their community.”
As communities continue to adapt to social and economic changes, Miccarelli hopes more residents will view civic engagement not as an obligation but as an opportunity.
“Strong communities don’t happen by accident,” he said. “They are built by people who choose to participate. The future of any community depends on whether its residents are willing to invest in it.”
Call to Action
Miccarelli encourages residents to identify one local organization, nonprofit, veterans group, school, or community initiative they can support during the coming year. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, attending local meetings, or offering professional expertise, even small contributions can help strengthen local communities and create lasting positive impact.
About Nick Miccarelli
Nick Miccarelli is the CEO of DELGO Community Transit, a former Pennsylvania State Representative for the 162nd Legislative District, and a Staff Sergeant in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard with more than 25 years of service. Based in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, he is active in veterans advocacy, community leadership, and civic engagement initiatives throughout the region.
The project responds to the need for a functional, well-maintained recreational space serving both Communal Elementary School and the wider Barangay Communal community. For students, it supports physical education, school assemblies, and organized sports. For residents, it provides a reliable venue for recreation and community activities. In a country where basketball brings people together, the upgraded court is designed to serve both groups equally.
Looking ahead, STARCARES will expand its global basketball court initiative, with Lagos, Nigeria planned as the next redevelopment project, furthering its mission to create safe, inclusive sports spaces that empower youth and strengthen communities worldwide.
