Public Space
The walking tour introduced preteens to the history in their own neighborhood — from abolition-era organizing to the messages still painted on today’s walls.
Accountability
A Philadelphia school district official admitted the district has neglected Stetson’s building for decades. Students and educators questioned the district’s data and scoring of the school’s capacity.
Solutions Spotlight
Neighbors and community organizers gathered at the Kensington Engagement Center to kick off Co-Creating a Greenprint for Kensington, a workshop series organized by NKCDC focused on expanding and improving safe public green spaces.
Community Life
Black Americans account for 40% of people living with HIV but are far less likely to be prescribed preventive medication.
Arts & Culture
Philadelphia school communities are pushing back against the district’s plan to close 20 schools. At Conwell Middle School, community leaders urged the district not to take resources away from the neighborhood.
Kids in Kensington
Over 25% of West Kensington residents don’t have a high school diploma. Embedded advisers and support could help students overcome poverty and other systemic barriers, experts say.
Weekly News
Free HIV/AIDS testing event, business tax prep workshop and more.
Accountability
Concerns grow that Philadelphia’s school closure plan disadvantages some already vulnerable neighborhoods.
Government & Policy
Faith leaders and community members braved the cold outside Philadelphia’s ICE office to reflect, pray and call for justice amid heightened immigration enforcement.
Accountability
Despite declining enrollment, parents and City Council member Quetcy Lozada describe Conwell and Stetson as community anchors and resource hubs.
Weekly News
‘Right to the City’ board game play session, hat knitting workshop and more.
A key member of the Philadelphia City Council has already expressed opposition to parts of the district’s plan to close, relocate, and co-locate several schools.
Arts & Culture
The proposal would have a particularly large impact on middle schools, with more than a dozen elementary schools turning into K-8 schools.
Weekly News
MLK Day cleanup, Lost Time comedy show and more.
Weekly News
Family Fort Night, MLK Day of Service event and job search assistance.
Weekly News
This week: Nearly 100 photos from 2025, our community survey extended through Jan. 12 (with a chance to win $200), and the Power January fundraiser at 33% of goal. Plus free yoga, chess club, Zumba, and more events.
Community Life
A year in photographs from the neighborhood, made close and over time.
Friends of the Children offers families a commitment that the program will be there in a child’s life from kindergarten through high school graduation — “12+ no matter what,” they say.
Weekly News
Happy holidays, neighbors. This is our last newsletter of the year. Thank you for your continued support! If you have
Community Life
Counties battle uncertainty over funding rules while advocates and families push for an increased say in opioid settlement spending decisions.
Newsroom Announcements
You get a tax break. They get a keepsake. Kensington gets reporters.
Housing & Shelter
Applications are open to eligible older Pennsylvanians and people with disabilities.
Weekly News
Hey there, neighbors. Coming up this week, Santa is picture-ready for free photos at Scanlon Rec Center, local artists
Small Business
Applications are open through Dec. 31 on the Merchants Fund website. Priority will go to small, locally owned retailers operating in low-income neighborhoods.
