Barbara Howell Park Conservancy

02/18/2026

An Important Community Update

After four meaningful years of service, the Barbara Howell Park Conservancy will begin a formal wind down, and the Urbana Black Heritage Festival will be retired under BHPC’s stewardship.

We are incredibly proud of what this community built together. The celebrations, the stories, the joy, and the impact. None of it would have been possible without our sponsors, donors, volunteers, artists, and attendees.

This decision was made with honesty and reflection. While the mission was strong, the organization was unable to establish the long-term structural support required to continue sustainably. Our founder is committed to closing this chapter responsibly, with care for the community and integrity of the work.

If a successor group steps forward, advisory support will be offered to assist with a potential transition of the festival. Visit our FAQs for more information.

Thank you for showing up, believing in this work, and being part of something meaningful. 🤍

https://www.bhpconservancy.com/general-5

11/23/2025

✨ Parks are more than just green spaces – they're at the heart of our communities! From encouraging physical activity and fostering social connections to supporting environmental health, the benefits of well-maintained parks are endless. 🌳🌈 Explore how investing in parks can make neighborhoods more vibrant and cohesive: [Link in Post] 💬 How does your local park bring your community together?

Parks are more than just green spaces; they are vital hubs that bring people together, foster well-being, and enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods. By investing in parks, communities can create environments that promote social interaction, physical activity, and environmental stewardship. Th...

10/27/2025

Discover how community parks bring people together, creating hubs of connection, activity, and joy. 🌳 These green spaces not only enhance neighborhood pride but also offer countless social and health benefits for all. Don’t miss out on learning how to get involved and make a difference in your local area. Click below to unfold the full story! 🚶‍♀️🌟

Community parks are more than just green spaces. They are vital hubs where people come together, share experiences, and build lasting relationships. These parks provide a natural setting for social interaction, physical activity, and cultural events that enhance the quality of life for everyone. Und...

07/10/2025

📣 Calling All Families, Volunteers, and Community Leaders!
We’re inviting you to join us at one of the upcoming Family Learning Pod Mini Events happening over the next few weeks!

These events are short, powerful gatherings designed to introduce families to a transformative education and discipleship model that supports children spiritually, academically, and emotionally—restoring the family to God’s original intent.

🎥 Watch this quick video (1:38) to learn more:
👉 https://youtu.be/lEmFxZw67aA

Whether you’re a parent looking for more for your child, a leader who cares about the next generation, or someone with a heart to serve—we need you to help us spread the vision and grow this movement.

Let’s rebuild our communities, one family at a time. 💛
Sign up for one of the FREE events here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeKy3LqUKdJ96fXKZ-x0rI9FkqAr-LyoV4V_Tr9WiI7VMRbHA/viewform

Who should attend?
- Parents/and or Guardians
- Students in Grades 5 and up (must be accompanied by a parent/guardian)
- Interested and Curious Community Members

07/06/2025

⏳ Central Buckeye Conference "50 for 50" ⌛

Urbana High School: Patrick Rogan, Division II Ohio High School Athletic Association 400M State Track Champion: June 1st, 1985

Almost 35 years after Terry and Sheri exited the hallways of Urbana High School, the last name Rogan still resonates through area sports folklore. Beginning with Jeff in 1979 and continuing through Greg, Patrick, and Terry, the Rogan brothers captivated Central Buckeye Conference Friday nights for over a decade. Sally, a three-sport star in volleyball, basketball, and track, may have had the best career of them all, while Sheri was three times named to the All-Ohio High School Athletic Association Basketball First Team.

⏳ Central Buckeye Conference "50 for 50" ⌛

Urbana High School: Patrick Rogan, Division II Ohio High School Athletic Association 400M State Track Champion: June 1st, 1985

Almost 35 years after Terry and Sheri exited the hallways of Urbana High School, the last name Rogan still resonates through area sports folklore. Beginning with Jeff in 1979 and continuing through Greg, Patrick, and Terry, the Rogan brothers captivated Central Buckeye Conference Friday nights for over a decade. Sally, a three-sport star in volleyball, basketball, and track, may have had the best career of them all, while Sheri was three times named to the All-Ohio High School Athletic Association Basketball First Team.

It wouldn't be hyperbole to say that a book could be written to do justice to all the stories surrounding the first family of Hillclimber athletics. Jeff's eye-popping offensive production, Sally breaking the state shot put record, Sheri dominating Junior High football games, or Greg's three years as a starter for Earle Bruce at Ohio State are all worthy of much more than a Facebook post.

All accolades aside, it was Patrick who accomplished something unique to the historic family. As a 6'2 210 lb Freshman, Pat took Ohio Stadium by storm as he became what was believed to be the first freshman Ohio state champion in the 400-meter dash.

Rogan, an incredible mix of size, strength, and speed, blazed a 49.38 clip. Exactly forty years later, the time stands as the fastest in UHS history.

06/14/2025

Transparency post⚠️

Running a small business is not for the weak!!!! After taking time away, there are so many people I can say that have continued to push me and support me with my business. From my fiance, family, friends, and my wonderful supporters. But I must give all the thanks for keeping my products in her store and keeping my business alive when I wanted to give up. But God! He gave me this gift and passion, and I will continue to walk on this path I'm on. So, with that being said, I'm back where it all started today in Urbana, Ohio, at the Black Heritage Festival. Come check us out.

06/13/2025

🚨🚨 Tomorrow is the day! 🚨🚨

We can't wait to see you and all your family and friends at Urbana Black Heritage Festival tomorrow. The day starts at 11am and we have lots in store for our attendees. See you there!

06/13/2025

A huge THANK YOU to the Champaign County Arts Council for sponsoring this year’s Urbana Festival! 🌟

We’re so grateful for their continued support in helping us celebrate Black culture, community, and creativity right here in Urbana. It’s partnerships like this that make it possible to uplift local artists, provide family-friendly fun, and honor the legacy of Barbara Howell Park year after year. 💛🖤💚

Come out and enjoy everything the festival has to offer — thanks to sponsors like the Arts Council, it’s going to be an great weekend!

https://champaigncountyartscouncil.org/

The Champaign County Arts Council has been promoting fine arts in Champaign County, Ohio since 1974.

06/12/2025

We are thrilled to have Gloria Theatre by GrandWorks as a sponsor of this year’s Urbana Black Heritage Festival! As a cherished cultural landmark in the heart of Urbana, The Gloria has long been a gathering place for stories, art, and connection.

Through film, live performances, and community programming, The Gloria Theatre uplifts voices, sparks creativity, and brings people together. Their support of the festival helps us shine a light on Black heritage and continue telling the stories that matter most.

Thank you to The Gloria for your ongoing commitment to the arts, to inclusion, and to building a vibrant cultural community right here in Champaign County.

See what’s playing and learn more about their mission at gloriatheatre.org

06/11/2025

We’re proud to recognize The Peoples Savings Bank Urbana as a sponsor of the Urbana Black Heritage Festival! Their support helps make this celebration of culture, community, and history possible.

For over 130 years, The Peoples Savings Bank has been a trusted financial partner in Champaign County—offering personal service, local decision-making, and a genuine investment in the people they serve. Whether it’s saving for the future, buying a home, or supporting local businesses, they’ve remained committed to helping our community thrive.

We’re grateful for sponsors like The Peoples Savings Bank who believe in building strong communities—not just through banking, but through active support of events that bring us together and honor our shared legacy.

Learn more at thepeoplessavingsbank.com

06/10/2025

We’re honored to see the Urbana Black Heritage Festival featured by Champaign County, OH Visitors Bureau! 💛🖤

This article beautifully captures our mission to celebrate culture, community, and legacy. From the music and food to the history and joy — this is what it’s all about.

Read more about what makes this festival so special:
🔗 https://www.visitchampaignohio.com/blog/urbana-black-heritage-festival-a-legacy-of-love-unity-and-celebration

How One Man’s Tribute to Family Became a Community-Wide Movement On a warm summer day in Urbana, Ohio, the sound of gospel music fills the air, the rich aroma of soul food drifts through the...