The Philadelphia Foundation, in partnership with The Lenfest Institute for Journalism and with support from a grant by the William Penn Foundation, has announced the launch of «Philly Gives.» This new philanthropic initiative is a community-driven fund aimed at supporting and strengthening essential nonprofit organizations serving Philadelphia and its suburbs. Running from November 25, 2024, to January 31, 2025, the program will highlight nine selected organizations addressing the region’s most pressing needs, such as affordable housing, food security, healthcare access, youth development, and job training.
“This initiative represents a powerful opportunity for the community to come together and support organizations that are truly making a difference,” said Pedro Ramos, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Foundation. “Through this effort, we aim to connect donors with community-focused nonprofits on the front lines addressing our region’s most urgent needs. By supporting these organizations, we’re all investing in a brighter, more resilient future for our communities,» he added.
Philly Gives was originally conceived by Janet Haas, Chair Emerita of the William Penn Foundation and a practicing physician. Her vision to foster Philadelphia’s spirit of solidarity inspired a unique collaboration among the region’s leading philanthropic and journalistic institutions.
By connecting donors with nonprofit organizations, Philly Gives provides practical, essential services to individuals and families in need across the region. The initiative builds on the success of similar campaigns in cities like Seattle, Portland, and New York, where collaborations between community foundations, media, and the public have significantly boosted support for vital social services.
Jim Friedlich, Executive Director of The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, shared that just before the 2023 holidays, Janet Haas reached out to him, Pedro Ramos, and Shawn McCaney of the William Penn Foundation to explore how to further strengthen the culture of giving in Philadelphia. “We explored models from other cities and saw how these collaborations could inspire greater community investment in vital services,” he said.
The purpose of Philly Gives is to amplify the voices of these critically important organizations through coverage in prominent regional media outlets, including the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Philadelphia Tribune, Impacto, WURD Radio, 6abc, and New Mainstream Press (Metro Chinese Weekly and Metro Viet News). The collaboration aims to raise awareness and foster community support for the selected beneficiaries, each of which provides direct and crucial services to individuals and families in need across the region.
This year, the Philly Gives Fund will benefit nine nonprofit organizations selected by a diverse committee of recognized community and civic leaders. The recipients include GALAEI, the Ann Silverman Community Health Clinic, Hopeworks, ACLAMO, VietLead, Why Not Prosper, Domestic Violence Center of Chester County, YEAHPhilly!, and the YMWIC (Young Men & Women in Charge Foundation). Each was chosen for its practical and essential services as well as its dedication to creating a more equitable Philadelphia.
«Philly Gives presents an incredible opportunity for our community to unite in support of organizations doing outstanding and transformative work in our neighborhoods. For our Latino community, which continues to face significant challenges, this represents not only an opportunity to receive vital support but also a powerful step toward resilience and progress,» said Dr. Michelle Carrera, Executive Director of Xiente and a member of the nominations committee. “We invite our entire community to come together and support organizations that are transforming lives,” said Martin Alfaro, Project Manager for Philly Gives. “By highlighting the power of collective giving, we ensure that every dollar goes directly to nonprofits working tirelessly to address critical needs across Greater Philadelphia. It’s an honor to provide a platform that amplifies their impact and connects them with the generosity of our region.” Alfaro concluded inviting supporters to learn more about each grantee and make their donations at phillygives.org
