SRFCA Brings Cohesion To Area
Heidi A. Lytle, President
Santa Rita Foothills Community Association
What happens when an area is recognized only as a “Census Designated Place?” There is no local government representation, no central means of unifying the community or disseminating information.
In the small borough of Corona de Tucson, a group of neighbors originated the Santa Rita Foothills Community Association, identified geographically as the area served by the Corona de Tucson Fire District. Incorporated as a non-profit in 1980, the group is dedicated to promoting the interests of the community of Corona, or CdT.
The firehouse serves as a venue for monthly meetings, where members meet to voice concerns about community issues. Guest speakers range from local business owners to political candidates. County Supervisor Ray Carroll has frequently made himself available to weigh in and take action whenever possible.
Although by definition apolitical, certain ideals are held unanimously. A principal topic is backing Save the Scenic Santa Ritas (SSSR), a volunteer group dedicated to protection of the Santa Rita Mountains from degradation due to mining activities.
Vail School District support is also high on the list of SRFCA activities. One member recently received Cienega High School’s Volunteer of the Year award.
For many, the key element of SRFCA is its monthly newsletter. Published in print and via email, it delivers the skinny on neighborhood happenings, such as Red Cross blood drives and other events at American Legion Post 109, CdT’s prominent community hub. Several Neighborhood Watch groups have formed in the area as a result of the interaction.
One of CdT’s jewels is “Corona Cares,” a network of “neighbors helping neighbors” offering support services. As a mainstay of the community, they’re a monthly feature in the newsletter.
All interested are welcome to attend SRFCA monthly meetings. Corona residents are encouraged to join and become eligible to bring forth and vote on community issues. For more information, please contact President Heidi Lytle at jnhlytle@gmail.com.
