Celebrating Black History Month
Each February, the U.S. celebrate Black History Month to honor the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape our nation. The African American community is integral to the city of Philadelphia, so we’re honored to share a few nonprofit organizations founded or run by Black Philadelphians:
Photo courtesy of The ECO Foundation
The ECO Foundation
The ECO Foundation creatively educates people through art and entertainment while connecting them with opportunities to better themselves and their communities. ECO is building a world where people love themselves and use their purpose to make it a better place. ECO wants to encourage young people to get more involved in their communities, helping in various ways, all with building relationships and creativity in mind. From self-care and communication to money management and mental health, they do their part to creatively educate the community. ECO offers a series of activities, workshops, and professional developments to support the next generation of young people who will positively impact the world with their work. The ECO Foundation has served over 2,300 students and families, granted over $9,600 in scholarships, distributed 10 laptops, and over $3,500 in micro grants to individuals and small businesses.
You can sign up to volunteer at the ECO Foundation here and visit their website here.
Photo courtesy of Let’s Go Outdoors
Let’s Go Outdoors
Let's Go Outdoors is Philadelphia’s leader in providing convenient, fun and outdoor-themed experiences for families, schools, individuals and organizations, especially in urban communities. Since 2010, Let’s Go Outdoors has hosted one-of-a-kind programs that promote learning, build character and encourage environmental awareness. Services increase interest in the science of nature and attracts new outdoor stewards. Let’s Go Outdoors is comprised of two exceptional visionary leaders, Keisha and Tarsha Scovens and was created in partnership with the Let's Go 1-2-3! our 501(c)3 non-profit affiliate. Programs are hosted year-round at various times and sites throughout the city, with direct partner locations in North, Northwest, Southwest and West Philadelphia.
Learn more about Let’s Go Outdoors here.
Coded by Kids
Photo courtesy of Coded By Kids
Coded by Kids is a 501c3 tech education nonprofit founded in 2013 by Sylvester Mobley. The organization focuses on providing young people 8 to 18 years old from underrepresented groups with software development, digital design, computer science, and tech startup-focused entrepreneurship programs. Programs are designed to provide young people of all backgrounds with beginner to advanced level tech skills in areas where the lack of diversity, equity, and inclusion are the greatest. Through the programs, they focus on preparing students for career and entrepreneurship opportunities with significant earning and growth potential. Students are able to participate in the programs over the course of multiple years, progressively increasing their skill level and experience. Using a structured multi-year program model allows Coded by Kids to provide students with the level of support necessary to become the next generation of tech and innovation leaders. The team utilizes project-based learning to ensure that students are learning in highly engaging environments and gaining real-world skills. They connect students to mentors who come from tech and innovation to ensure they have a network and support system of professionals around them.
Learn more about Coded by Kids here.
