Youth HEALers Stand Up

Youth HEALers Stand Up! is a group of 13-24 year olds who are fighting to put a end to youth homelessness in Philadelphia and beyond. The people involved with this group have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity and want to make it so that future generations don't have to go through the same struggle. The HEALers do this by educating young people, professionals, decision makers  on what youth homelessness looks like, bringing awareness in our communities to the situation, and empowering other youth to use their voice and take real action to put a end to youth homelessness.

New Sanctuary Movement

The New Sanctuary Movement is an interfaith organization that advocates for immigrant rights. For many mixed-status immigrants in Philadelphia, it has provided them with a sense of community and a point to mobilize from. 

Scarlett Raye Pennington

Scarlett Pennington, 23, recounts the story of her transition from traditional college to beauty school to become a hair stylist. She speaks on the joy she's found in her new profession, as well as, the fulfilling connections she made.

"Unedited North Philadelphia"

On April 11, Temple Students, community members and history enthusiasts gathered at the Wagner to hear about the events that shaped North Philadelphia. The discussion covered topics ranging from the 1964 Columbia Avenue riots to the ongoing development of the neighborhood as Temple University expands.

After Hitting a Low, An Artist Regains Confidence in his Craft

Between working over 30 hours a week at the post office and writing for RESPECT. magazine, 24-year-old Chris Matteis spends his time drawing portraits of hip-hop artists. A music-lover and sketcher since his childhood Matteis has always had an affinity for the arts. After returning to Philly after a failed stint at a Delaware art school where he struggled with a drug addiction, Matteis decided channel his energy back into his craft. Re-inspired he started a 100-part portrait project depicting hip-hop artists. His work has attracted the attention of popular rappers like Big Daddy Kane and Shabaam Sahdeeq.

All of his miniature portraits are done on white paper with classic BIC pencils. Once finished he said he plans to debut the collection at a showcase in Philly or New York. Listen to him share his story of drugs, music and art.