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

🌟 Participant spotlight! Success in the MindSet Program🌟

🌟 This spotlight is on Mr. Allen, who has been with us for just over a year. Since joining, he's maxed out the savings program and increased his monthly revenue by an impressive 25%! Help us congratulate Mr. Allen on his hard work and dedication. 🎉👏 #ECSPhilly #MindSetProgram #SuccessStory #EconomicMobility #Inspiration #CommunitySupport

Expanding Impact: ECS Approved to Lead Neighborhood Advisory Committee

ECS was recently notified that we have won approval to be part of the City’s Neighborhood Advisory Committee (NAC) program, funded by the Division of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The endorsement of ECS by community members, local leaders, and elected officials highlights the visibility, strong reputation, and deep presence ECS has built within the communities surrounding SBCRC. Participation in this program will allow us to expand our capacity to reach even more people, making this an important milestone. Please find more information about the NAC award below. I am grateful to all the ECS staff and community partners who contributed to this wonderful outcome. – Anne Rice-Burgess, Chief Executive Officer

ECS Goal Getter: Duan's Story

My name is Duan R., and I am an ECS Goal Getter. I have been a Mindset participant since 2022. When I first started, I set a goal to purchase a home for me and my children, to complete my semesters in school with all A's, and to graduate with my Bachelors. Once my goals were set, I knew I had to work hard to reach them. I held myself accountable and I’m proud to say I purchased my home a year ago! I’m still striving and moving forward with other goals I’ve set. The most recent goal was just achieved a week ago. I mentioned to my coach what I wanted to do, how I was going to execute it, and did the work myself. My children are extremely proud of me, as they were the ones who helped me endure, pushed, and motivated me. My father, I know, would have been proud of me if he was still here. When I first started my journey to go back to college, I lost my father, so my beginning was very difficult. Achieving my goals gave me confidence and boosted my self-esteem. I didn't think getting a degree was possible for me. The journey seemed long, and so many of my classmates gave up, saying it was too hard for them. So many days I was ready to quit, but I never did. I'm looking forward to my spring graduation ceremony and even contemplating obtaining my master's degree. My sons are looking at me and are inspired. I’m proud to be an inspiration to my family and I’m proud to be an ECS goal getter.

Our Mission and Values Ring Clear

The enduring work of ECS reflects a persistent and profound need in our communities. We are deeply grateful for our committed partners and contributors, whose unwavering support rises to meet every challenge.

ECS Goal Getter: Janira's story

Allow me to introduce myself: My name is Janira B., a proud member of the ECS Goal Getter community. My journey with ECS's Mindset program has spanned five enriching years, a period marked by significant personal and professional growth. When I first embarked on this transformative path, I grappled with a career that, while fulfilling, did not fully ignite my passion. However, the collaborative spirit and unwavering support I encountered within the ECS ecosystem proved to be a catalyst for positive change.

ECS Receives "Innovative Project" Support Grant from the Sarah Ralston Foundation!

ECS is proud to receive a 2024 Innovative Project Support Grant from The Sarah Ralston Foundation, joining a diverse group of nonprofit organizations committed to addressing the most pressing needs of vulnerable, underserved older adults across Philadelphia. These projects span a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, housing, digital literacy, and community engagement, with a focus on empowering this population and fostering resilience.

Events St. Barnabas Community Resource Center

Fall Fest 2024 - Great Success!

Last Saturday, Episcopal Community Services hosted its annual Fall Festival, an event beautifully organized by ECS’ Lavonia Page. This year's theme was "Get Your House in Order." The community was welcomed into St. Barnabas Community Resource Center, where the fun was just beginning. Once through the doors, individuals received a family pack full of household essentials, including dish soap, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, a set of screwdrivers, utensils, cutlery, and more. Each pack also included a dental kit with toothbrush, toothpaste and timer, donated by Penn Dental.

Mindset: Level Up Celebration

Several participants from the MindSet Program recently “leveled-up” in a ceremony celebrating their achievements at the ECS St. Barnabas Community Resource Center. MindSet is a program focused on career development and financial stability. Uniquely, this program offers one-on-one coaching, a matched savings programs, cash incentives, and access to emergency funds for up to 7 years. ECS’s team of specialists provide additional intensive support in the areas of financial management, housing, and career development. The participants who were recognized increased their income and savings and decreased their debts, in addition to achieving other goals, allowing them to be promoted to the next phase of the program.

Lights On After School

"Lights On After School is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates media coverage across the country each year."