Healing Programs
The Women’s Support Circle has been a longstanding space within Philly Thrive for women to gather together. This space has fostered deep listening skills and supportive relationships that has radiated out to the rest of the organization. A mantra of the circle is: “We hear you, we see you, and we love you.”
The Alternatives to Gun Violence Circle began in 2020 when Philly Thrive members felt we had an imperative to offer our skills towards addressing the gun violence crisis in Philadelphia. The program started working with adults in the community process experiences of gun violence using a range of strategies, including building nonviolent communication skills and drumming & dancing. However, the circle decided it was critical to focus support on youth so the program is entering its third summer bringing teenagers together to learn and build skills according to the Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) framework.
Youth Programs
Our WeeThrive Summer Camp provides free summer programming for children ages 4-12 years old. The camp carries on Ms. Irene Russell’s legacy with her Stinger Square Park Patrol, providing Grays Ferry youth access to nature, trips, arts & crafts, and overall joy & community-building.
We named the Carol Hemingway High School Internship after our beloved ancestor and her commitment to empowering youth voices and activism. The internship meets biweekly during the school year where a group of about 10 students learn about all the basics of community organizing and campaigns, ultimately planning their own actions for one of Philly Thrive’s campaigns.
Philly Thrive strives to organize regular multi-generational social gatherings, including an annual Halloween costume party, trips to nature, and more. Last year we went to Coney Island beach!
Mutual Aid Circle
Our mutual aid circle coordinates weekly delivery of food boxes to community members in partnership with SEAMACC, and organizes quarterly mutual aid giveaways. The circle also oversees the Emergency Care Fund, a program that enables Philly Thrive members to access critical support for urgent needs like overdue bill payments, emergency transportation, and food access.
Tech Circle
Our tech circle provides free accessible tech training classes to community members, and provides free devices (primarily chromebooks and laptops) to South Philly residents. The tech class that has been serving the seniors of Wilson Park for several years has
