When Amy Debach moved to Bellefonte in 2006, she was enthralled with the duality of the area — rural yet metro, culturally diverse yet deeply rooted in history. It’s a mix that invited involvement and has kept her here for close to two decades. She spoke to [Bellefonte.com] about the best ways to volunteer and what everyone needs to check out while they are in town. Read on!

Can you tell me your Bellefonte story?

I moved to historic Petrikin Hall in downtown Bellefonte in 2006. I've been here almost as long as I was in my hometown of Troy, PA! I was a floral designer at Michaels Arts and Crafts for six years. In 2011, my daughter was born and I began my career at The Arc of Centre County, where I serve those with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and autism.

Can you tell me about community organizations where you are involved?

I've been on the board of Downtown Bellefonte Inc. since 2019, where I am the mural committee chair and have helped organize the Outdoor Adventure Expo for a few years.

I also volunteered at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School while my daughter attended.

I am a graduate of the 2022 class of Leadership Centre County and served on their arts and recreation committee this year.

How can local people get involved with these organizations?

Reach out! These groups, boards, and committees are a great way to meet people with similar interests.

What's your WHY?

I have a drive to be busy and make things happen around me, whether in my home, work, or community!

In your opinion, what makes Happy Valley so one-of-a-kind?

Our local Amish community and the tucked-away locations. Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, is such an interesting mix of rural-metro!

What’s one off-the-beaten-path thing that you personally love about Happy Valley?

There are so many forward-thinking people in this area. It's a culturally diverse area but also has deep roots that are grounded in a classic love for our area.

What’s something every visitor should see (or eat, or experience) while they are here?

Everyone should check out the downtown Bellefonte waterfront and Talleyrand Park, The Penn State Arboretum, and an international restaurant in Downtown State College!