PHENND-Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development

08/07/2026

This summer, 14 PHENND Summer Associates are serving with organizations across while preparing for the transition from high school to college through the AmeriCorps Summer Associates Program. Over the next several weeks, we’ll be highlighting the incredible work they’re doing with each of our host sites. ☀️

Our first stop is SquashSmarts, a nonprofit organization that supports Philadelphia public school students through a unique combination of academic tutoring, squash instruction, mentorship, and youth development. Their long-term commitment helps students build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and develop healthy habits both on and off the court.

Our Summer Associates have been supporting SquashSmarts’ summer program, helping create engaging experiences for youth through academic enrichment and squash coaching. 🤝

Thank you to SquashSmarts for welcoming our Associates and providing meaningful opportunities for them to learn alongside and support Philadelphia’s youth! 💛

07/01/2026

Creating a thriving learning community takes more than strong content and lesson plans. It requires educators to think intentionally about belonging, safety, flexibility, and the many experiences learners bring into a space.

This fall, we're excited to once again offer the Creating Thriving Learning Communities Workshop series, bringing together educators from across the region to explore trauma-informed and healing-centered approaches that support the whole learner.

Through guided discussions, practical tools, and shared reflection, participants will leave with strategies they can apply in their classrooms, organizations, and communities. 💬✨

Whether you're school-based, university-based, or community-based, this series is designed for anyone who works with learners. 📚

Register by September 23 - scan the QR code below!

06/23/2026

This summer, we are launching our Book Club! 📚

Our first selection is Byron P. White's Introducing The Community-Centric Path to Rebuilding Trust in Higher Education.

Drawing on interviews with higher education leaders, emerging frameworks, and institutional case studies, White's book explores how community engagement connects to broader organizational strategy and transformation.

We hope to come together on August 14 from 11 AM - 12 PM for our first discussion.

Join us by registering through the link in our bio!

06/23/2026

We’re excited to see the launch of SDP’s new Partnerships Dashboard! 👏

06/16/2026

We recently kicked off our 2026 Lindy
Award Winner Spotlight Series by celebrating Drexel University and the Chester County Intermediate Unit's Migrant Education Program! 🌟

Since 2022, this partnership has created new opportunities for migrant students through mentorship, academic support, and career exploration. 🎓🤝

Read more about it on our LinkedIn (link in bio)!

06/16/2026

We're back! 😁

On June 2, PHENND's 2026 K-16 June Institute brought together educators, administrators, and community partners to strengthen pathways from the classroom to college, career, and beyond. 🌱

Read more about it on our LinkedIn page (link in bio)!

02/26/2024

03/14/2023

PHENND (Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development) is now hiring for the position of School Community Partnerships Coordinator-PHENND Fellows AmeriCorps VISTA in Philadelphia. Apply today.