Philly Gives is back for 2025!

On October 29, Philly Gives supporters gathered at 6abc’s studios to launch this year’s effort and celebrate the unique partnership between philanthropy and journalism that makes it work.

The initiative – launched by Philadelphia Foundation and supported by a grant from the William Penn Foundation – elevates the impact of nonprofit organizations, which are essential to the well-being of Greater Philadelphia residents and communities. Modeled on successful community-based media funds in other cities, Philly Gives fosters a culture of giving that unites individuals, businesses, and foundations around common goals.

The Power of Storytelling

Philadelphia Foundation President and CEO Pedro A. Ramos shared a powerful example of how compelling stories drive action. After learning about one of last year’s grantees, Hopeworks, through Philly Gives coverage, a local donor made a $100,000 gift to support the organization’s work with young adults.

“When community and media work together, it becomes action,” said Ramos. He emphasized the challenging landscape facing nonprofits today – from funding uncertainties to growing community needs – and highlighted the unwavering dedication of organizations that continue showing up every day. “Generosity is the bridge between what we aspire to be and the change we can create.”

Dr. Janet Haas, a practicing physician, emeritus Chair of the William Penn Foundation, and visionary behind Philly Gives, spoke about her aspiration for the campaign: “What makes Philadelphia special is our generosity, our collaboration, and our belief that when we give together, we can create lasting change.”

Linking aspiration to action, the inaugural 2024 campaign raised $200,000 from the community. Combined with $450,000 in seed funding, Philly Gives delivered $650,000 in direct support to nine nonprofit organizations across the region. In year two, the partners aim to further elevate the importance of local nonprofits and raise even more to support their important work.

A Unique Media Partnership

Unique among local efforts, Philly Gives leverages a committed partnership between Philadelphia Foundation and leading regional news organizations including 6abc, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Philadelphia Tribune, Impacto, New Mainstream Press, Philadelphia Gay News, and WURD Radio. These outlets tell the stories of the nonprofit partners, sharing their work with audiences across the region.

Bernie Prazenica, President and General Manager of 6abc, reflected on the initiative’s growth. “Year One was unbelievable. Year two is going to be even better, and we’re all behind it!”

This year’s campaign runs through December 31 and benefits from expanded funder support from Comcast, Connelly Foundation, Bank of America, Patricia Kind Family Foundation, Independence Foundation, and the Hamilton Family Charitable Trust.

All donations go directly to the nonprofits involved, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families across the area. For more information or to donate, visit www.phillygives.org.

The 2025 Nonprofit Partners

This year’s Philly Gives nonprofit partners are: The Attic Youth Center, Esperanza, SEAMAAC, Catholic Charities of Philadelphia, Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia, Share Food Program, Children’s Crisis Treatment Center, Philabundance, Congreso, and Project HOME. Together, they serve LGBTQ+ youth, immigrant and refugee communities, families facing food insecurity, children in crisis, individuals experiencing homelessness, and countless others in need of support.