WEST CHESTER, PA – January 1, 2026 – The Chester County Community Foundation proudly announces the release of Dare to Declare, a powerful short film commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 

Produced by the Chester County Community Foundation in partnership with Tailor Made Media, Dare to Declare brings together voices from across the community, including civic leaders, educators, and students from Coatesville Area Senior High School. Among the readers are Colonel Cynthia Abbadini, U.S. Army (Ret.), Stacey Ballard, President/CEO of Eadeh Enterprises, Rose Fennell, Superintendent of Valley Forge National Historical Park, and Leon Spencer, who provides the prologue and epilogue. Students Gianna Jackson and Jayden Yacoe, along with classmates from Joseph Tassoni’s AP Government classes, proudly represent Coatesville Area Senior High School in this historic project.

The film is part of the America250 PA Chester County initiative, which invites residents to reflect on our founding principles and envision the next 250 years of American democracy.

Premiere Events:
Celebrate the launch of Dare to Declare at one of three red-carpet community premieres:

• Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center
  Monday, January 26 | 5:00–6:30 PM
• The Colonial Theatre
  Wednesday, January 28 | 6:30–8:00 PM
• Kennett Library
  Tuesday, February 10 | 6:00–7:30 PM

Each event will feature the screening of the short film and an opportunity to connect with community members who helped bring this project to life. Admission is free and open to the public.

“This video is a wonderful way to unite our community around the words that built our nation and the people who continue to shape its future,” said Karen Simmons, CEO of the Chester County Community Foundation.

***

About the Chester County Community Foundation: Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds over $136 million in trust and annually awards $6+ million in grants and scholarships. To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.chescocf.org.