A Safe Space in Times of Crisis

Single parents often face immense challenges in balancing their responsibilities toward their children while managing their own life issues.

For Chelsea, finding time to address the daunting task of going to court to file domestic violence charges against a partner was crucial. She had two young children, the youngest of whom was in the hospital dealing with medical problems. With both children needing her support and attention, Chelsea felt overwhelmed and alone.

This situation exemplifies why Baring House exists. Chelsea began using Baring House as a safe space for her older child while she attended court and for support during medical appointments for her youngest child.

"She is always happy and smiling," Chelsea said about her daughter every time she picks her up from Baring House, which brings her relief and reduces her stress.

She is grateful to have discovered the program and plans to continue using it whenever she needs extra support. Every parent deserves assistance, and every child deserves a safe space while their parent navigates life's difficult challenges.

We are thankful to include Baring House in our programming and for the positive impact it has on the lives of people in our community.

Learn more about Baring House here.

Community Kindness This Thanksgiving

We want to express our gratitude to Shipley School for their incredibly generous donation of 50 turkeys, along with beautifully decorated boxes that contained all the essential Thanksgiving sides. We'd also like to thank Compassion For Care CDC for their donation of 10 turkeys, drawstring goody bags, and books! These contributions will make a significant difference for the families in our community during this special holiday season.

A special thanks also goes to the dedicated Vanguard volunteers who spent the afternoon with us. Their support was invaluable as they assisted in unloading the boxes, distributing the food to families, and assembling hundreds of festive candy bags. These candy bags will serve as delightful extra treats for our community, spreading joy and cheer during the holidays. We truly appreciate everyone’s efforts in helping us make this Thanksgiving a memorable one for those we serve!

HopePHL Board Member Spotlight: Christine Jereb

Job Title & Company: Executive Director, Impact & Inclusion at Comcast, where I lead the company’s Team UP program. Team UP connects our tens of thousands of employees around the world with opportunities to make a meaningful impact in our communities through volunteerism and giving.

What year did you join the HopePHL Board and what is your current position?I joined HopePHL in fall of 2024 and am a general member. I also serve on both the governance and development committees.

Best leadership advice ever received: Q-TIP! A former boss of mine used to remind me to "quit taking it personally" (or Q-TIP!) whenever I would internalize a situation and have a hard time re-centering myself. Hearing the short phrase would usually bring on a smile along with an important reminder to reset my perspective to overcome difficult circumstances. 

Why did you choose to get involved with HopePHL? My first experience with the organization was during my undergraduate studies at Penn many, many moons ago! I’ve crossed paths with what was then PEC, and now HopePHL, in various ways over the years through my employers, who have supported the organization philanthropically. I even had the opportunity to provide a grant to HopePHL as part of a class I took during my graduate studies. The organization is one that has been a critical part of the West Philadelphia community for decades, and I believe it is imperative that we continue to open doors for families to achieve stability and economic opportunity.



What are you most looking forward to for the end of the year? I absolutely love the crisp air, watching football and hockey, and the holiday season – which means more time to remember what matters and spend time with my family and loved ones.

Sky High Jazz: The Most Recent Lancaster Avenue Jazz Pop-Up

Our Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Festival Pop-Ups continued during the last week of November with a vibrant performance by the youth band Equinox. This special pop-up event took place at Sky High on the 60th floor of the Four Seasons Philadelphia, offering a stunning view of the city and a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations throughout the venue. It was a wonderful evening for community members to relax, connect, and enjoy the talents of some of Philadelphia's most promising young jazz musicians.

We invite you to join us for our final pop-up of the festival on Saturday, December 6th, from 2 PM to 5 PM. This event will take place at the Community Education Center, located at 3500 Lancaster Avenue. Come be a part of this celebration of music and community, and experience the joy of live jazz!

Keep updated on our pop-up events here.

LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo

HopePHL was thrilled to participate once again this year in the Philadelphia Zoo's spectacular LumiNature event, where we had the honor of decorating a beautiful tree dedicated to the White Rhino.

As a dedicated partner of various community organizations, the Zoo hosted a Community Night for participants in the tree decorating contest. This event welcomed local community members, their families, and our dedicated staff to enjoy a dazzling display of holiday lights. Attendees had a magical evening as they marveled at the stunning light installations and embraced the spirit of the holiday season together. It was a wonderful opportunity for connection and celebration, and we are grateful we were invited to participate again this year!

Vote for our tree here!

Join Us on Target Circle™ and Help Make an Impact

We are thrilled to share that we are featured in Target Circle™! This is an incredible opportunity for us, and we need your help to make the most of it.

By voting for us in the Target app, you can direct funds to support our important work. Your vote can make a meaningful difference and help us continue our mission. Thank you for your support!

Here’s how:

Step 1: Choose ‘My Target’ in the Target app or ‘Account’ on Target.com

Step 2: Tap ‘Cast votes’

Step 3: Find us & vote

Questions? Email hello@hopephl.org.

Show Off Your Holiday Spirit This Month!

Thank you so much for being a part of our community!

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