What the organization has to say:

“Our organization focuses on youth development programming and youth empowerment. Our goals are to remove barriers and labels placed on underserved communities. Programs are structured to engage and challenge the youth to be agents of change themselves.”

What we found:

Change Our Future recently launched the “Next Man Up” mentoring program at Parkway Northwest High School in West Oak Lane, and is preparing to expand to two more schools. COF also hosts a free annual “I AM Youth Leadership Summit” for Philadelphia high school students. The youth leadership summit provides leadership workshops, motivational speeches, gender table talks, resume review, career development workshops, and connections to job opportunities at their signature career fair. Throughout the year, COF also collects and distributes school supplies and personal hygiene products for students of all ages.

What the org has to say: "Philadelphia’s app for gun violence prevention and community resources. The PHILLY TRUCE APP puts Philadelphians with knowledge of potentially violent conflicts in direct contact 24/7 with trained mediators.”

What we found: Download the Philly TRUCE App to make sure you know where to turn if you, a loved one, or a stranger wind up in a situation that feels as though it could turn violent.  On one side of it, you can privately enter your name, phone number, email, location, and the type of conflict you’re witnessing or experiencing. From there, you will be connected with a trained volunteer mediator that can help to defuse the situation. You should also download the Philly TRUCE App if you’re in a position to help. Philly TRUCE is also looking for volunteers, and through an in-app signup, you can train to become a mediator.

*Please remember that the Philly TRUCE App is not a substitute for calling 911. *