Mitchell Schuman grew up outside of Pittsburgh, PA (Here We Go Steelers!), before moving east to attend Villanova University. After graduating from Villanova in 2018, he worked for a technology company in Center City, Philadelphia. Pursuing his passion for education, he left Philadelphia in the spring of 2021 to spend six months teaching English in Madrid, Spain.
Guest-written by Mitchell Schuman
Philadelphia is well deserving of its nickname, the City of Brotherly (and Sisterly) Love. The city is home to a large, passionate community of non-profit organizations. This article will provide a brief glimpse into five fantastic organizations doing incredible things in Philadelphia.
Philabundance
Philabundance is a member of Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks. The objective of this Philadelphia-based food bank is expressed simply in their mission statement: End Hunger for Good. Last year they provided over 55 million pounds of food to those in need. See how you can join the fight against hunger!Campus Philly
Campus Philly is a local organization working to bridge the gap between college students and the working world to ensure success for college students in the Greater Philadelphia area. They help fuel economic growth in the region by encouraging college students to explore off campus and connect with employers for internships and entry-level jobs. They frequently host virtual and hybrid career events like Black and Brown Students in Tech (happening Oct. 19!) for students to directly connect with some of the top employers in the region! They also have helpful tools for those living in Philadelphia, such as: Don’t forget to follow Campus Philly on Instagram!
ACLU
The American Civil Liberties Union is a national organization dedicated to combatting injustice. Since 1920, the ACLU has championed causes including:- Voting Rights
- Freedom of Speech
- Criminal Justice Reform
- Reproductive Rights
- Immigrants’ Rights
- LGBQT+ Equality
Mural Arts Philadelphia
Mural Arts Philadelphia is the nation’s largest public art program, dedicated to the belief that art ignites change. They empower communities and individuals through art each year by engaging in 50-100 public art projects. Mural Arts Philadelphia has three core programs:- Art Education – providing both in-school and after-school programs, covering everything from entrepreneurship to environmental stewardship through an artistic lens
- Restorative Justice – offering art as an alternative means of rehabilitation and punishment for former convicts reentering society
- Porch Light – addressing mental health and trauma, using art as a creative and therapeutic outlet
Project HOME
The goal of Project HOME is to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Philadelphia has over 6,000 individuals experiencing homelessness in any given year. At Project HOME, individuals and families can find support for housing, education, and health services to help address the underlying causes of poverty. By addressing these underlying causes, they can truly uplift individuals and families out of the cycle of homelessness and poverty. The organization focuses on the transformative power of dignity, strong relationships, and community support. Learn how to help this amazing organization here! Beyond the ways to donate and volunteer mentioned above, these organizations are always looking for motivated professionals to join their staff as either interns or full-time employees, so please be encouraged to explore available opportunities!***
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