Deanna Pacella, a longtime Harrisburg native, has called Forest Hills home since 2017. Along with her two sons, Asher, 16, and Flynn, 11, Deanna is an active part of the neighborhood. After moving from Paxtang, Deanna was drawn to Forest Hills for its welcoming atmosphere and tight-knit sense of community. "We really love the community here and are happy to be here," she says.

Deanna, who serves as the Admissions Director at Capitol Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, balances a busy work schedule while making the most of her free time with her family. Capitol Rehab, located on Linglestown Road, is currently undergoing a major renovation that Deanna is excited to see completed. “It looks incredible!” she says with enthusiasm.

Her sons are equally engaged in activities and enjoy everything their neighborhood has to offer. Asher, a junior at CD High School, has a passion for building computers and coding. “He’s incredible with IT issues,” Deanna says proudly, noting that Asher is also close with his grandparents, who live right next door. Summers are spent swimming in their pool, and Asher frequently visits them, enjoying the time spent with family.

Flynn, a sixth grader at Linglestown Middle School, loves to ride his bike around the neighborhood, hang out with friends, and explore local spots like Sheetz and nearby parks. He also volunteers at the Harrisburg Humane Society, participating in the Book Buddy program, where he reads to cats awaiting adoption. “He loves animals,” Deanna says, adding that Flynn’s compassionate nature shines through in everything he does.

When the family isn’t spending time outdoors riding bikes or hiking, they’re often working on trucks together or enjoying rides to 3B’s in the summer. Recently, they’ve added e-bikes to their routine, which has opened up new opportunities for family adventures. “We’ve really been enjoying those,” Deanna shares.

Deanna herself is dedicated to fitness, starting her mornings at 5 Bridges, a local gym, to get a workout in before work. “I’m a firm believer in working out and getting those endorphins going,” she explains. Although she became a Certified Personal Trainer in 2019, she hasn’t taken on clients due to her busy schedule, but fitness remains a priority.

Beyond her work and family, Deanna is involved in the community, contributing to a recovery house in Philadelphia called Savage Sisters. She sends much-needed medical supplies to help support individuals in their recovery journey.

The Pacella household is also home to a few furry family members. Truman, their Old English Sheepdog, and their two cats, Ford and Lynx, keep things lively. “It’s never boring with them around,” Deanna says with a laugh.

Though life is full, the family makes time for travel. A recent highlight for Asher and Flynn was a trip to Hawaii with their grandparents, cousins, and aunt—a memorable adventure that gave the boys a chance to explore the beauty of the islands.

For dining out, the Pacellas have a few go-to spots, including Tres Hermanos, Chik-fil-A, and Burger Yum. Deanna also loves spending time at local eateries with friends, making the most of Harrisburg’s dining scene.

As for sports, the family roots for Ohio State, adding a little extra excitement to their weekends during football season.

The Pacellas love their home in Forest Hills and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. “We really appreciate the sense of community and how friendly everyone is,” Deanna says, underscoring why the neighborhood has been the perfect fit for their family.