Community storytelling night in Sugar Loaf brought neighbors together, highlighted health and social ties

The Sugar Loaf Community Foundation hosted Voices of Sugar Loaf, an evening of storytelling, on November 24 at the Sugar Loaf Methodist Church. Residents delivered short personal five minute stories inspired by programs such as The Moth and Warwick Story Share, and the evening included musical accompaniment by harpist Emily Quaint. Admission was free and refreshments were provided.

The lineup reflected a cross section of the hamlet, from creative professionals to local leaders. Potter and inspirational speaker Ray Boswell, photographer Nick Zungoli, entrepreneur Faron Peckham, historian Dr. Richard Hull, Pastor Mike Barry, owner of Lightclub Curiosity and martial arts champion Melissa Somma, oncology tech designer Ryan Senning, and Cindy Kannon, daughter in law of community figure Walter Kannon, each shared reflections on Sugar Loaf past and present. The mix of heartfelt, humorous and inspiring stories drew neighbors into conversation about place identity and shared challenges.

Beyond entertainment, the event carried public health and social implications for Orange County. Community storytelling can reduce social isolation, improve mental health through connection, and surface lived experiences that are often overlooked by formal services. The presence of an oncology technology designer among the storytellers underscored the role of local voices in shaping conversations about health care access and innovation. Pastors, historians and family members contributed perspectives that can inform how local clinics, behavioral health providers and county planners respond to aging, caregiving and mental health needs.

Holding the event at a centrally located historic church and offering free admission increased accessibility for residents who might otherwise be excluded from civic programming. That approach aligns with broader equity goals aimed at lowering barriers to participation and ensuring that a diverse range of experiences reach decision makers. Organizers encouraged attendees to continue the conversation on social media and by phone, directing people to the Sugar Loaf Community Foundation on Facebook or by texting (201) 988 8865 for more information.

As Orange County seeks to strengthen community health and resilience, small local gatherings such as Voices of Sugar Loaf offer a low cost, high value model for centering personal experience in public planning. The event illustrated how storytelling can bring visibility to everyday needs and help knit a more responsive local safety net.