Last week, The Fund’s President & CEO Kathryn Epps joined Independence Big Brothers Big Sisters and The School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. for a POWER Up luncheon at City Hall. The Fund is a proud partner of POWER Up which aims to empower middle school students residing in high gun violence areas by fostering a robust support network both in their schools and communities. POWER Up is being implemented in three Philadelphia middle schools to address the rising issues of violence, poverty, and systemic obstacles. (fb)

“As a parent and as a champion for public education, it is difficult not to feel discouraged as the federal government virtually abandons our children by removing key supports. But I choose to see this moment as an opportunity that has further strengthened my resolve to overcome the shortcomings of federal decision makers in protecting our children. In a city like Philadelphia, where children and families face poverty at a disproportionate rate, we cannot and will not retreat. The stakes are far too high. So as we look to the next 10 years, The Fund is poised to double down on our mission.” ➡️ https://tinyurl.com/y23wt4k8 (fb)