Philadelphia is set to host the 2024 Thriving Communities Symposium, a transformative three-day event designed to empower community organizations, nonprofits, and individuals passionate about environmental justice, sustainability, and community resilience. Hosted by the Overbrook Environmental Education Center (OEEC), the symposium will take place from October 17–19, 2024, at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and Moore College of Art & Design. It is free and open to the public, offering a unique platform for learning, networking, and accessing critical resources.
Empowering communities through environmental justice
The Thriving Communities Symposium brings together frontline community members, nonprofit leaders, environmental professionals, and local activists to address urgent challenges in environmental justice and sustainability. With the goal of fostering collaboration, the event features a diverse lineup of speakers and activities aimed at empowering attendees with practical knowledge and solutions to improve their communities.
The event is structured to provide valuable insights through plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and breakout discussions. These sessions will cover essential topics such as climate resilience, public health, capacity-building for community-based organizations (CBOs), and grant funding opportunities.
One of the symposium’s key goals is to highlight and connect nonprofits with valuable resources, including federal grants and other funding opportunities that are critical to helping grassroots organizations thrive. Whether you’re involved in community greening projects, environmental justice initiatives, or renewable energy, this symposium will provide vital knowledge on how to grow your organization and scale your efforts.
Nonprofits: A golden opportunity for growth
For nonprofits and community organizations, the Thriving Communities Symposium offers an invaluable opportunity to learn how to access grant funding and capacity-building resources. As part of the event, attendees will be introduced to the Thriving Community Technical Assistance Centers (TCTAC), which provide ongoing support and guidance for nonprofits seeking to apply for federal and local grants.
These sessions will offer critical insights into how organizations can secure the financial resources they need to further their missions.
Workshops on grant funding will focus specifically on the opportunities available for nonprofit organizations working in areas of environmental justice, health disparities, and community resilience. Participants will also learn how to connect with local agencies and partners that can support their initiatives, ensuring their projects not only survive but flourish in the long term.
A platform for community leadership
A significant aspect of the symposium is its focus on honoring community leadership. The event will culminate with an awards luncheon on Saturday, October 19, at the Logan Hotel, located at One Logan Square, where 10 community leaders will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to advancing environmental justice and sustainability in Philadelphia. This luncheon will be an opportunity to celebrate the local change-makers who are making a tangible difference in their communities.
The luncheon also provides a unique networking platform for nonprofits, policymakers, and local leaders to collaborate and share their experiences in driving community improvement. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has been invited to deliver remarks, amplifying the city’s commitment to creating “Safer, Cleaner, and Greener” communities.
Key Activities
- Plenary Sessions: Expert panels discussing environmental justice, sustainability, and community resilience.
- Environmental Justice Bus Tour: Participants will explore neighborhoods where environmental stewardship is in action.
- Workshops and Breakout Sessions: These will provide hands-on opportunities to learn about accessing grant funding, community organizing, and capacity building.
- Community Resource Fair: Attendees will connect with local organizations and agencies offering critical resources to help nonprofits grow.
- Awards Luncheon: A celebratory luncheon at The Logan Hotel, honoring 10 community leaders making a difference in Philadelphia.
Open to all
One of the most compelling aspects of the symposium is that the plenary and breakout sessions are free and open to the public, making it accessible to community members and nonprofit organizations who may not otherwise have the chance to attend such a high-impact event.
Whether you are a nonprofit leader looking to expand your resources or a concerned citizen eager to learn how you can make a difference in your community, the Thriving Communities Symposium has something to offer.
The Thriving Communities Symposium is more than just an event — it’s a movement toward building resilient, thriving neighborhoods in Philadelphia and beyond. Nonprofits, community leaders, and local residents should take full advantage of this incredible opportunity to gain knowledge, network with peers, and access essential funding resources. With a lineup of expert speakers, engaging workshops, and the opportunity to celebrate community heroes, the symposium promises to be a transformative experience for all who attend.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this powerful gathering of changemakers. Register today to secure your spot and join the movement toward creating a healthier, more equitable future for all.
For more information and to register, visit: www.overbrookcenter.org.
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