Learn more about new partnerships, community-wide events, pilot programs, and the success of our participants.

ECS Employee Spotlight

Featured employee Amber Wool, MSW, LSW, shares her ECS story as a data reporting specialist. View her full story below.

Advocacy

Benefits Cliff Researcher Says Coalitions Can Help

It was a return trip for Samantha, a former ECS intern in the Inclusion and Advocacy department. At ECS, her specific role was to research the benefits cliff. Her work involved reviewing policy documents, following up with existing ECS partners and making new connections with other organizations that are also addressing the benefits cliff issue.

Children & Youth

Out of School Time (OST) Participants Enjoy a Fun-Filled Day at Dave & Buster’s

Our Out of School Time (OST) program participants recently had an incredible day at Dave & Buster’s in Philadelphia, making lasting memories filled with games, laughter, and fun. The outing was a highlight of our program, offering children a delightful break from their routines. These moments of fun and connection are invaluable, not just for the children but for our entire community.

Community Comes Together at Annual Back to School Bash

Our Back to School Bash on Saturday, August 3, was a resounding success! This year’s theme was “Philly, be heard!” and ECS welcomed families for a fun-filled, educational afternoon at St. Barnabas Community Resource Center. The Back to School Bash also served as an engaging platform for families to learn about voting, the branches of government, and the importance of civic engagement, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in the democratic process. A heartfelt thank you to the Lenfest Institute for Journalism, which awarded ECS a civic engagement grant as part of its Every Voice, Every Vote initiative encouraging Philadelphia residents to get involved with local government.

Anne Rice-Burgess’ Reflection on Her First Year at ECS

As we look back on the past year, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for all we have accomplished together. Anne Rice-Burgess’ reflection letter is a tribute to the hard work, dedication, and resilience each of you has shown. Through challenges and triumphs, your unwavering commitment to our mission has made a significant impact.

PBJ Names ECS’ Soneyet Muhammad a 2024 Women of Influence Honoree

Every year, the Philadelphia Business Journal seeks nominations from the public for the Women of Influence awards program. The program recognizes women business leaders blazing a trail in Greater Philadelphia. We are pleased to announce that ECS’ Soneyet Muhammad was named a 2024 Women of Influence Honoree among an impressive pool of more than 200 nominations.

Warmth, Family, Love: Erickah’s Rapid Re-Housing Journey

In the last fiscal year, 83% of ECS Rapid Rehousing participants exited to permanent housing. In this video, Rapid Rehousing alumni Erickah W, talks about the impact the ECS program had on her and her family:

News

Author Grant “Tom” Thomas Donates All Proceeds of New Book to ECS

Grant M. Thomas, III, or “Tom” as his friends call him, recently reached out to ECS about his new book, Adventures on Land, Sea, and Air, and generously offered to donate all proceeds to ECS. “I’ve written a book,” Tom said. “And I would like the proceeds from sales of the book to be donated to ECS.”

Powerful Partnership: ECS MindSet & The West Philadelphia Skills Initiative

Partnerships with other organizations are one way ECS works to maximize the impact of the work we do to challenge intergenerational poverty in Philadelphia. While the scope of our educational programs, coaching opportunities, advocacy initiatives, and community events is wide-ranging, it’s true that we, as a donor-supported mission, can’t address every challenge we see directly. By teaming up with partners who excel in particular areas that complement our programs, we can expand the impact and reach of our work.