June 2026 Newsletter


I’m pleased to announce that I will be passing CPI’s leadership baton to Veronica Ayala in July, as I step down to pursue my “third act”. My 16 years with CPI represent the most meaningful work of my life. I pay tribute to the CPI contributors, instructors and 800 Citizen Planners across the city working for positive change. You continue to inspire others and have transformed the way I see the world.


With gratitude,

Donna J Carney, CPI Director, 2010-2026


Accomplishments and Reflections Report


Philly in a Photo Contest



Thanks to everyone who helped promote the Philly in a Photo teen photo contest!

Congratulations to the winners! All photos are being exhibited at the Field Teen Center located at Parkway Central Branch of the Free Library (1901 Vine Street) until August 28. Here are some photos from the opening event. Thanks to our tabling partners!

Citizen Planners in Action!

Catch up with citizen planners Andrew Hart (Spring 2017) and Ulicia Lawrence (Spring 2021) to see what they have been up to since their last story.


Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Strawberry Mansion - Brewerytown Neighborhood Walking Tour   


Neighbors are leading a tour of important spots in the neighborhood and sharing the stories they’ve gathered about these special places! 



Join North Philadelphia residents and city planners for a neighborhood tour led by neighbors and Citizen's Planning Institute alumni! Tour leaders will share personal experiences and stories they've collected from around the neighborhood in this special one-time tour. Whether you're discovering a new spot, or hearing fresh stories about an old favorite, join us for a trip through the neighborhood! 


Register

Registration for PhilaNOMA’s 2026 Project Pipeline Summer Camp is open!


This hands-on program gives middle school students the opportunity to explore the world of design. 



Camp Dates: Saturday, July 25 and Saturday, August 1, 8, and 15 

Location: Temple University, Tyler School of Art and Architecture 

Cost: $60 


Register your student today!

RCO Registration


The Philadelphia City Planning Commission is now accepting applications for organizations interested in applying to become a Registered Community Organization. Around 30 active RCOs are due for renewal--they will need to apply in June as well. The registration deadline is June 30th.


Learn more. Email RCO@phila.gov with any questions.

Arts of Cecil B. Moore Avenue Summer Workshop Series


Throughout the summer, Cecil B. Moore Library is hosting a summer series of hands-on workshops that celebrate its rich artistic and political history in Sharswood. Led by local artists, these sessions will feature mosaic-making, collage, clay sculpture, painting, archives, and graffiti. Each workshop will be inspired by the art, architecture, and archives inside Cecil B. Moore Library.


Learn more

Third Fridays: Afterwork Kickback 


Citizen Planner Malik Henry is inviting you to Third Fridays, and afterwork gathering for professionals to unwind, connect, and kick back in style. Expect less stiff networking, more real conversations over great drinks, good food, and live music. 


Get tickets

Trail Survey


The City is developing a new Trail Master Plan to guide the future of trail planning in Philadelphia! Take the survey to inform the plan.

Forman Family Fund is now accepting applications for grants supporting Greater Philadelphia nonprofits that serve young people ages 11 to 18. Eligible programs offer in-school or out-of-school-time opportunities in photography, architectural drawing and architecture, and written arts. Ten grants of up to $40,000 each will be awarded. Apply by July 3.

Volunteer Opportunities with Sharing Excess


Sharing Excess is a food rescue nonprofit working to eliminate food insecurity by redistributing surplus food to underserved communities. Volunteer Monday through Friday, 8:30– 11:00AM at the Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market. Or support a community-facing event that brings free, fresh produce directly into Philadelphia neighborhoods. Your team just shows up, and they'll take care of the rest! To learn more or sign-up, visit their Volunteer Portal or reach out to community@sharingexcess.com

New Program: PA Cultural Exchange (PaX)


The PA Cultural Exchange Fellowship is a new and innovative program from PA Humanities that convenes humanities, creative and cultural practitioners from across Pennsylvania in a dynamic learning experience designed to deepen relationships, spark creativity, and strengthen the state’s humanities and creative network. Learn more and apply by July 8.

Job Opportunities


Walkaround Philadelphia, Program and Community Manager


Meantime PHL, Deputy Director


UC Green, Executive Director


PEW, Senior Officer of Research and Policy


Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC):


SEPTA:


Department of Public Health


City of Philadelphia: www.phila.gov/jobs

 

Consider making a tax-deductible contribution! Click "support this project" on the CPI page on the Philadelphia City Fund website.

Citizen Planning Institute logo with an orange "Donate" button on a checkered background

Donations will go towards scholarships, increasing support for CPI alumni, and expand CPI programming beyond the biannual course.