Phillyanthropy

Get Up, Get Out, Get Involved

by Dana Henry

Having recently obtained a major grant from the ACE Group of insurance companies, Reading STARS continues to build its legacy as Philadelphia's central child literacy project. Help celebrate by supporting the newest tutoring site on North 13th Street, just blocks away from Temple's main campus. Coaches are needed to work with North Philly grade school children and help them build a better foundation for the rest of their education. Call 215-564-4544 or e-mail volunteer@gpcares.com.

Michael Nutter needs help taking out the trash — literally. The new mayor wants to remove an estimated 1 million pounds of litter from the streets, parks and recreation centers of Philadelphia. As part of a pledge to create a cleaner, greener city, he's asking all residents to lend a hand in this daylong, citywide cleanup. With more than 100 participation sites, there's a way for us all to get outside and get cleaning. Call 215-638-CLEAN or visit phillycleanup.com.

Representation is key to citizenship. Unfortunately, as the folks behind Project H.O.M.E. know, certain demographics are often overlooked. That's why this homeless advocacy organization will be working hard to help ex-offenders, low-income persons and anyone without an address cast a fair ballot for the April 22 primary election. Interested volunteers are invited to attend these voter mobilization training workshops at Project H.O.M.E.'s headquarters and learn how to provide assistance to potential voters. Call 215-232-7272 ext. 3106 or visit projecthome.org.

Pennsbury Manor, the recreated Morrisville home of William Penn, explores Pennsylvania's past and the impact of its founding father through estate tours. To better prepare volunteer guides, Pennsbury will hold weekly workshops that cover the life and times of Mr. Penn and the estate layout. After completing the monthlong course, you'll be able to pass along your knowledge and appreciation to fellow curious Keystone staters. Call Ann Clements at 215-946-0400 or visit pennsburymanor.org.

Artworks, Trenton's community arts center, is already gearing up for their annual Art All Night festival in June. The 24-hour multimedia showcase runs strictly on volunteer power — which means they need your help starting now. Join the planning committee for parking, security, setup, breakdown and green-waste management as a team captain or member. Call 609-394-9436, visit artworkstrenton.org or e-mail info@artworkstrenton.org.