In Philadelphia—Pennsylvania’s largest city—you’ll find a unique blend of history and progress. This charming city offers numerous parks, gardens and historical and cultural landmarks. While the city has plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy, it also has great need for your ministry. Your group will partner with local ministries in Philadelphia to serve and love others.

Demographics

Philadelphia, also called the “City of Brotherly Love,” is the second largest city on the East Coast and the fifth largest in the U.S. Approximately 1.4 million people live in the city, and the five-county region is home to 3.8 million. Philadelphia is located between two rivers, the Delaware and the Schuylkill, and is a two-hour drive from New York City. It was the site of some of the most significant events of early-American history, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today, much or the city’s history can be explored at Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center and the National Constitution Center. Federal statistics indicate the racial make-up of Philadelphia is primarily white (45 percent), African-American (43.2 percent) and Asian (5.5. percent). Despite growth and economic progress in Philadelphia over the years, there still are those who face a daily struggle with poverty. About 23 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, including 31 percent of those under age 18. On any given day in Philadelphia, approximately 6,500 people are homeless. Sixty percent of the homeless population are families. These are the people who have a special need for the encouragement and hope that Christ’s love offers. Come serve Philly residents and, at the same time, experience a defining moment in your own life.

About the Ministry

Participants serve in a variety of ways during a YouthWorks mission trip. Students may spend all week at one ministry or switch between ministries during the week. Students may participate in a Kids Club and partnering with local organizations. Kids Club is a hands-on program led by your youth offering high-energy games, crafts, skits, songs and interactive lessons all designed to help kids learn about Jesus. Our goal is to partner with local organizations and programs that seek to address the very basic needs of residents. Students may serve at places like: Children’s Programs, Elderly Centers, Soup Kitchens/Homeless Shelters and Thrift Stores. We cannot confirm until all groups arrive exactly what ministries your students will be a part of during the week. We ask that you come with a willing and flexible spirit!

Activities

Evening activities during a YouthWorks week are designed to give participants insight into the lives of local residents and the culture of the area. Here is a list of possible evening/cultural activities: take the “El” to the Historic District including several major landmarks; attend a local church service; visit the site of the famous “Rocky Run” at the Art Museum & Fairmount Park; and attend a community cookout. These are examples of what your group might partake in during your mission week. These examples are subject to change due to weather or availability. In case of change, suitable substitutes will be provided. We try to arrange for free evening activities, but from time to time, an additional cost may be required for an activity. Please plan to bring an additional $10 per person to cover any extra costs. We will confirm the details closer to your trip.

Ministry Week

Kids Club (begins late June) and Partnering with Local Ministries.

Mileage

Philadelphia is located in eastern Pennsylvania, and has an international airport.

Transportation & Travel

Each group is responsible for transportation to and from the site, and during the mission week. Philadelphia can only accommodate standard 15 passenger vans or smaller and cannot accommodate trailers.

Additional Information

If you would like more information on what there is to do in Philadelphia and surrounding areas before or after your trip, check out the Web site: www.philadelphiausa.travel.