As playful dogs romp and wrestle in the field behind the Delaware County Dog Shelter, it’s hard to imagine a time when they were emaciated, sick, and in some cases, clinging to life.

Residents of the Short North since 1986, Jack and Zoe Johnstone have seen the revitalization of the neighborhood firsthand—and have proudly been involved in many of the efforts to capitalize on its charm.

The idea for Harmony Project didn’t happen overnight. Founder David Brown had been carrying it around for a while, but didn’t know if it was even possible—to bring people together and provide them with the opportunity to sing, serve, and share.

Their paths are different, but Mark Tripodi and Denise Meine-Graham share a bond over something no one should—the sudden, tragic loss of a child. Both parents' deep despair turned into a longing to make similar situations better for others.