G.R.O.W.N

What the org has to say: “G.R.O.W.N. is designed to work as a conduit for change and empowerment. To be utilized by Philadelphians to demonstrate and highlight their growth and maturity over adverse situations that occurred in their lives. G.R.O.W.N. participants exercise their civic responsibilities and continuously strive to better their conditions.”

What we found: G.R.O.W.N.’s approach to mentoring addresses both shooting victims and alleged shooters. According to the organization’s co-founder and director, Connell Drinks, G.R.O.W.N. uses “a cognitive-based program to change their thinking and pull them away from the pull of the streets.” The organization’s programming ranges from trauma-informed therapy to creative activities. G.R.O.W.N. says it is “trying to make doing positive cool.”