Established in 1987, Leader Sunoco, under the careful stewardship of its owners, the Leader family, long ago established itself as far more than a gas station within Chadds Ford Village. Located at 1634 Baltimore Pike (across Rt. 1 from Hank’s Place), they warmly welcomed residents to an annual Christmas Eve open house for 38 years prior to the pandemic. Offering food, friendship, and a true spirit of togetherness, this became a beloved township event and created a true sense of community.
Leader’s long-standing involvement in the Chadds Ford Business Association reflects their dedication to supporting local businesses, often promoting others through flyers and signage at the stations. Their community spirit extends further through volunteer efforts such as hosting a night for new drivers to learn about general maintenance of the vehicles. They also allow Girl Scouts to earn their Car Care Badge empowering the next generation with valuable life skills.
Their community spirit goes beyond the garage. Whether helping a stranded driver with a flat tire or picking up a resident’s car from a retirement community, the Leader family consistently offers a helping hand when it’s needed.
Established in 2020, OsoSweet Bakery Café, under the careful stewardship of its owner, Tess Wofford, has established itself as a community center within Chadds Ford Village. In a few short years it has become a welcoming gathering place for young and old—a place where longtime residents, hotel guests, and those just passing through all feel welcome. Located at 1609 Baltimore Pike within the historic Barn Shops, Tess has thoughtfully honored the long history of the location and maintained its rustic character and charm. The success of the bakery café along with its Pizza Nights and live music have contributed to the revitalization of the Shops and Chadds Ford Village. OsoSweet Bakery Café has also given back to the community in numerous ways including hosting baking classes for local Girl Scouts, after hours classes for special needs students, donations of food and gift cards to local organizations, and discounts for teachers. Tess has also given baking classes as part of Unionville High School’s Wellness Days program. Giving back to the Chadds Ford community is a fundamental value to Tess and her team.
The Association’s first Business of the Year Award was presented to Chadds Ford Tree Service, owned and operated by Rob King and family. For decades, CFTS has done a wide range of volunteer work for the Township and may other local cultural and non-profit organizations. This includes hanging the Township Christmas wreath and banner, and trail maintenance for the new Harvey Run Trail. The supported the Brandywine Battlefield Park by clearing logs and debris along with donating new trees to replace damaged ones. For years they have given free fire wood to the Chadds Ford Historical Society along with performing tree maintenance. CFTS is also at the ready when Chadds Ford experiences floods and other storm damage and the first on the scene to assist with cleanup.
Nominees for this award have worked to create a strong sense of community within the Township, supported its residents through volunteer activities, or helped retain the Township’s unique historical quality and rural character.