MLK Day of Service in Philly — Where to Go, What to Do

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a perfect opportunity to engage with other Philadelphia citizens on civic projects that matter. Volunteer. Visit a museum. Build peace

By Laura Swartz
Guest Commentary

In Praise of Barry Grossbach, a Civic Hero

University City District’s president remembers the West Philly resident, who turned volunteering into a full-time effort to better his neighborhood

By Matt Bergheiser

“Nothing Short of A Miracle”

The annual convening of Black male educators late last year was a reminder of what can happen when Black men show up for the future.

By Dr. James Peterson

One Thing to Do Each Week to Make a Better City in 2026

52 small ways to make Philadelphia a little better for you, me, your neighbors and strangers

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

How To Mobilize Hope In 2026

A longtime university president on how to turn the higher ed disasters of 2025 into actions that will preserve what’s best about our local colleges

By Elaine Maimon
Guest Commentary

Defending Human Rights at Home and Abroad

President Donald Trump didn’t show up for the United Nation’s most recent gathering on human rights. A Philadelphia social justice activist joined colleagues to make a stand on behalf of the values that should matter to all Americans

By Robert Saleem Holbrook

If These Two Could Become Friends…

What does America need on Thanksgiving 2025? Civility, kindness and open-mindedness, of the kind demonstrated by political enemies-turned-best friends Fred Guttenberg and Joe Walsh

By Courtney DuChene

17+ Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season

How to spread cheer to all Philadelphians in this time of joy — and need

By Charissa Howard

“To Be On Someone’s Mind Is To Be Loved”

It’s hard to serve others these days. That’s why the United Way’s Bill Golderer, along with former Big Brothers CEO Marcus Allen, is giving thanks this week to Philly’s nonprofit leaders

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy
Citizen Recommends

Sleep Out at Citizens Bank

The Phillies and a Philly-born Hollywood producer have joined together to host an annual fundraiser for youth homelessness organization Covenant House PA next week.

By Courtney DuChene