What do the following organizations have in common?

Skiddy Park Association, Sunnycrest Park Association, Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department, Vincent House, The Spanish Action League, P.E.A.C.E. West Side Family Resources, BIKE Syracuse, the Determination Center, West Side Arts Council, the American Red Cross and Baltimore Woods?

Aside from the fact that all are dedicated to bettering the lives of people in Syracuse and Onondaga County, they all banded together to make possible the neighborhood tree lighting in Skiddy Park, on the near West Side, on Dec. 16.

Despite the bitter cold, the event was attended by some 150 area kids, many of whom helped decorate an eco-friendly tree with bird food ornaments. (The number of birds attending was significant, but difficult to determine accurately).

The kids (and grateful adults) were treated to hot chocolate from a Red Cross truck, and a hardy band of carolers circulated throughout the neighborhood.

The Sunnycrest Park Association has partnered with the Skiddy Park Association since a tragic shooting some five years ago cast its shadow on the West Side neighborhood,

The significance of such cooperation?

Aside from tangible results such as successful, events like this, the cooperation of multiple agencies for the common good is a tribute to all involved, and a true testament to the overriding good in our community at large.