"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can
do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
- Martin Luther King Jr.
About Us
Philly Peace in Progress supports youth ages 3 to 23 in West Philadelphia with programs that build confidence, stability, and hope. Many of the young people we serve face challenges such as poverty, food insecurity, unstable housing, community violence, and limited support systems.
We provide literacy resources, pajamas and books, financial education, cultural arts, conflict-resolution workshops, career and education guidance, food support, and community wellness programs that help youth grow, heal, and thrive.
Our compassion extends to children in hospitals, where we deliver books and pajamas to bring comfort and encouragement during difficult times. We also support neighborhood seniors with food and wellness workshops because they hold a special place in our hearts and our community.
Our work is strengthened by partnerships with foster care agencies, schools, daycares, community centers, and by the meaningful contributions of volunteers with disabilities, who bring inclusion, purpose, and joy to every program.
Philly Peace in Progress is a circle of care, connection, and opportunity—built on the belief that progress is something we create together.
We provide literacy resources, pajamas and books, financial education, cultural arts, conflict-resolution workshops, career and education guidance, food support, and community wellness programs that help youth grow, heal, and thrive.
Our compassion extends to children in hospitals, where we deliver books and pajamas to bring comfort and encouragement during difficult times. We also support neighborhood seniors with food and wellness workshops because they hold a special place in our hearts and our community.
Our work is strengthened by partnerships with foster care agencies, schools, daycares, community centers, and by the meaningful contributions of volunteers with disabilities, who bring inclusion, purpose, and joy to every program.
Philly Peace in Progress is a circle of care, connection, and opportunity—built on the belief that progress is something we create together.
Our ImpactPhilly Peace in Progress empowers our community by supporting youth and families in West Philadelphia.
|
|
Source: Philly Peace in Progress Impact Report, 2022–2024. All figures based on internal tracking from PPIP’s 2022–2024 Impact Report.
Our Own Progress
To empower youth ages 3 to 23, families, and neighborhood seniors in West Philadelphia through literacy, financial education, conflict resolution, cultural arts, career and education pathways, essential resources, and inclusive community support. We work to prevent violence, strengthen emotional wellness, and ensure every person we serve feels valued and supported.
By building resilience, our youth are more likely to:
Crawl Out
of Poverty |
Increase Physical, Mental,
& Emotional Health |
Succeed in All
Aspects of Life |
Why We Do What We Do
|
OUR MISSION
To support Philadelphia’s at-risk, low-income youth and families by instilling crucial life skills, fostering academic and career growth, creating meaningful relationships, and building a strong community. |
OUR VISION
We want to do everything in our power to help make West Philadelphia a safer place for our youth and young adults. We want our community to feel empowered to chase after their goals without the use of violence. |
OUR FOCUS Philly Peace in Progress focuses on everyone, no matter what. We believe in resisting the impacts of violence in a holistic way and providing a wide spectrum of services of programs that will strengthen each person with the resources and skills they need to thrive. |
Our Vision
West Philadelphia where every child, young adult, and senior—especially those facing poverty, trauma, medical challenges, or limited support—has the tools to learn, grow, resolve conflict peacefully, and build a future filled with possibility. We envision a community where literacy, creativity, opportunity, and compassion open doors for all.
Meet Our Team
|
CRYSTAL NELSON
Founder & Executive Director |
ERNEST HOLLAND
Vice President |
LATOYA NELSON
Board Member |
|
ALISE CALDWELL
Board Member |
RASHON GREEN
Board Member |
Financial Information
Philly Peace in Progress is a 501(c)(3) organization (Tax ID: 84-2117685). Recognized by the IRS as a Charitable Organization with a ruling year of 2020, all donations are tax-deductible.
Request more information about what makes Philly Peace in Progress Stand out among other Youth Service providers. Submit this form to be contacted or to request the lates news, useful information, and to find out about our upcoming events and more!