June 2026 Newsletter

“Belongingness entails an unwavering commitment to not simply tolerating and respecting difference, but to ensuring that all people are welcome and feel that they belong.”

– john a. powell

“I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself.”

– Maya Angelou

Community Summit Recap | Bold on Purpose: Leading Audaciously, Together

On May 20, 250 leaders in our community came together to learn, connect, and deepen practice and skills for bold, audacious leadership. Thank you to our incredible speakers, volunteers, sponsors, and, of course, attendees, for a powerful day together!

Thank you to Lux Summit Studio for capturing the day. The photo album also includes attendee pictures. Thanks to all for snapping shots throughout the Summit!

Day of Advocacy = Big Impact!

On June 2, more than 100 advocates from Bucks and Montgomery Counties came together in Harrisburg with a shared message: Housing and behavioral health are inseparable priorities, and both require urgent action and sustained investment.

Thank you to all who participated! Your leadership, advocacy, endurance, and heart made a big impact. Our deep thanks to our planning partners: The Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, Mental Health Partnerships, Montco 30% Project, and C3.

Learn more about our priorities and the legislation we’re advocating for in Harrisburg!

Join us! The Collaborative Advocacy Network (CAN) meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday, 10:00-11:15am, Zoom. We’d love to advocate with you! Please contact Correne Kristiansen to get involved: [email protected].

The People’s Public Education Testimony Community Hearings

“Parents, students, community leaders and advocates have been grappling with the detrimental impact of not having a viable, fair and balanced U.S. Department of Education – Office of Civil Rights. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission has two very narrow and specific statutes that do not cover the acute issues needed to fully protect the rights that should be bestowed on students and their families.

Section 515 of the PA Public School Code does not delineate accountability measures for governing school boards. School community members have no immediate recourse or checks and balances when school boards vote on decisions not based on community consensus. This section of the PA school code needs to be amended to allow for timely and effective school board governance in the 21st century. This section of the public school code needs to define the duty of community engagement by school board directors. The definition needs to be clear and measurable; if not adhered to, board members would face consequences upheld by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, not the Common Pleas Court. Hardworking Pennsylvanians don’t have the means to pay for a lawyer to represent their interests in court. School board directors are elected public servants. They need to respect and represent that charge.

The people of Pennsylvania deserve an opportunity to publicly share their specific experiences and document their stories. On Sunday June 28th, The People’s Public Education Testimony Community Hearings will launch in Norristown, Montgomery County. Citizens from the five Southeast counties of the Commonwealth will be able to congregate, coalesce and commune with others for the common good of every Pennsylvanian seeking real reform in our public school systems.”

Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026
Register Here
Event Address: CCATE (Centro de Cultura Arte Trabajo y Educación)
1246 West Main Street, Norristown, PA 19401
Questions: (215) 284-5680-(484) 257-9513 or [email protected]

For additional information and testimony dates, please click here.

PA House Legislative Fellowship Program | Accepting Applications by July 1

Do you know a college student interested in state government? The PA House Legislative Fellowship Program is currently accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester!

The Fellowship Program is based in the State Capitol in Harrisburg. Fellows are placed in House committees or leadership offices, are compensated (and sometimes earn college credit), and gain hands-on experience drafting and presenting legislation, meeting public officials, and touring historic state sites. Go to pahousefellowship.us for more information and directions on how to apply. The deadline to apply is July 1!

New Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center and Regional Training Facility

From welcoming advocacy spaces to expanded therapy rooms and a first-of-its-kind Regional Training Facility, every part of this new center was thoughtfully designed to support children, strengthen collaboration, and advance the multidisciplinary response to child abuse.

Watch this video to take a look inside the new Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center and Regional Training Facility!

NAMI Webinar | Restoring Black Men’s Wellbeing Through Nature and Community

• Wed., June 24, 3:00-4:00pm
• Zoom, Register Here

NAMI National and the Community Health Equity Alliance (CHEA) are convening a conversation on what it means to support the health of Black men from the inside out.

This webinar will bring together perspectives on mental wellness, physical health, outdoor connection, and community-based support to explore how healing, restoration, and long-term wellbeing are strengthened when Black men have access to spaces, tools, and relationships that allow them to show up fully for themselves and one another. Learn more and sign up!

SE Regional Mental Health Services | Adult Mental Health First Aid

• Thurs., June 25, 8:30am-3:30pm
• SE Regional Mental Health Services Coordination Office
• Register Here

Inward Bloom | Rest and Rejuvenation!

Weekly schedule – learn more at www.inwardbloomwellness.com!

BCHIP | Free Smoking Cessation Program

This five-session progam is free with registration. Learn more at register at www.BCHIP.org.

NAMI Bucks County WarmLine

The NAMI Bucks County WarmLine is a telephone-based, non-crisis support system for anyone struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. The staff providing the services has been through a similar journey, either as a person receiving mental health or substance abuse services, or as a family member of an individual receiving these services.

All calls and communications are kept confidential and callers provide information based on their level of comfort.

Call 215-343-3055 and press 1 from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM daily if you need the support of a NAMI Peer. Learn more.

Integrate for Good | Executive Functioning Summer Program!

Executive functioning skills are the brain-based abilities that help us plan, organize, manage time, regulate emotions, and follow through on tasks—from getting started to seeing things through.

WHO THIS IS FOR: This program is designed for young people with disabilities who want to strengthen their executive functioning skills to succeed in school, work, and daily life. With the right resources, support, and community, everyone can build the skills needed to thrive.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM: Executive Functioning for Success is an interactive seminar that helps participants develop essential executive functioning skills, such as time management, emotional regulation, and adaptability. Through hands-on workshops and a supportive learning environment, participants will learn practical strategies to improve organization, focus, and problem-solving while building confidence in their abilities.

Learn more, share, and encourage sign-ups!

Bucks County Community College | Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Training Programs

Bucks County Community College is now recruiting for the next Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Training Programs, running August 31 – November 20. Training is free for eligible participants, and no prior experience is required.

These programs are ideal for individuals who enjoy working with their hands, solving problems, and learning technical skills that can lead to rewarding careers. These programs are designed in partnership with employers and focused on job readiness, with 90% of graduates securing employment in manufacturing or related skilled trades after completion.

Industrial Maintenance & Automation Systems: Learn how to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair the electrical, mechanical, and automated systems that keep modern manufacturing facilities operating.

Metalwork & CNC Technologies: Learn how to manufacture precision parts and products using machining, fabrication, welding, and CNC technology.

In addition to hands-on technical training, participants earn industry-recognized credentials—including OSHA 10 General Industry and Forklift Safety—that demonstrate workplace readiness to employers. Learn more!

Information Sessions: Center for Advanced Technologies, Bristol, PA (registration required):

• July 9 at 1:00 PM
• July 28 at 1:00 PM

Montco 2026 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

Eligible Montgomery County seniors can receive $25 in vouchers to purchase fresh, locally grown Pennsylvania produce.

Vouchers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and are available through September 30, 2026, or while supplies last. Please see the updated list of distribution locations, and share with Montco seniors!

BCHIP Advance Care Planning | Monthly Opportunities Throughout Bucks County!

Learn more.

PA CareKit | Personal, practical, and ready when you are.

No two caregiving journeys are the same. One day, you’re simply helping out. The next, you’re just holding everything together. PA CareKit is a collection of tools, information, and support to help you learn more, plan ahead, or catch your breath. It’s here to support your role, your time, and your needs – because caregiving rarely comes with instructions. Learn more.

Eclipse Center for Creative Community | Radical Love Art & Poetry Exhibition

Eclipse Center for Creative Community is hosting their 5th Annual Radical Love exhibition to showcase and support local LGBTQ+, BIPOC, AAPI artists and poets!

The event this year is curated by and benefits the work of True Colors Collective. The exhibition is open until June 26 during gallery hours:

• Wed & Thurs 1:00-7:00pm
• Fri & Sat 1:00-5:00pm

Chamber of Commerce for Greater Montgomery County | A Celebration of Community

• Thurs., June 18, 11:30am-1:30pm
• Montgomery County Recreation Center
• Register Here

The Chamber is once again celebrating member organizations that support our community. Join them for lunch and an awards ceremony!

2026 NPLG Summer Convening

• Wed., July 22, 8:30am-1:30pm
• 3700 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA
• Register Here

This year’s convening will feature specially curated discussions and insights informed by responses to the recent Nonprofit Leaders Group Needs Assessment Survey. Explore timely topics affecting nonprofit organizations while creating space to connect with peers, share experiences, and learn from one another.

Space is limited. Each organization may register up to two representatives, with preference given to one senior leader and one board member.

Montgomery County Foundation | Luncheon: Building on Our Legacy

• Wed., Sept. 30, 12:00pm
• Presidential Caterers, East Norristown
• Register Here

Recalibrate Your Events to Fuel Year-Round Fundraising

• Tues., June 30, 1:00-2:00pm
• Register Here

Join fundraising master trainer, Chad Barger, ACFRE, ACNP, for a workshop focused on getting the most out of your organization’s special events. Chad will review the true purpose and ideal revenue model for events. He’ll also review concrete steps to grow year-round revenue by converting event attendees to annual donors and event sponsors to corporate partners. Finally, he will also provide some real world examples of unique fundraising events that have broken the mold. It’s an “all things events” presentation and everything is on the table.

Pro Bono Consulting | 3 Opportunities

Learn more about On Track, On Demand, and Executive Coaching opportunities, with application deadlines coming up!

Bucks County Opportunity Council is Hiring!

BCOC is hiring a Rapid Rehousing Coach and ReEntry Stability Coach – Learn more!

Children First is Hiring!

Children First is a dynamic, fast-paced, growing child advocacy organization focused on improving the lives of children by building support and momentum to improve local, state and/or federal policies that can promote racial and economic equity for children as they grow up in southeastern Pennsylvania. Their staff is a group of highly motivated individuals who are passionate about improving the lives of children and youth. Through bipartisan advocacy, they have a record of winning scale level changes that do just that.

To be successful at Children First, you must enjoy collaborating and helping coworkers do their best and contribute to a respectful workplace that values a commitment to racial diversity, having fun, and making an impact. Learn more about 5 open positions!

• Juvenile Justice-Child Welfare Policy Associate
• Youth Advocacy Coordinator
• Development Coordinator
• Early Childhood Education Mobilization Coordinator
• Mental Health Campaign Director

OHAAT is Hiring!

OHAAT is hiring a Part-time Delivery Truck Driver – Learn more!

Family Service Association of Bucks County and Penndel Mental Health Center Explore Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Community-Based Care in Bucks County

Family Service Association of Bucks County and Penndel Mental Health Center are proud to announce that their Boards of Directors have officially approved a resolution to pursue a strategic partnership and explore a merger between the two long-standing organizations.

This proactive, mission-driven effort is designed to strengthen and sustain community-based behavioral health and human services throughout Bucks County for years to come. By combining administrative resources, clinical expertise, and decades of experience serving vulnerable populations, the organizations aim to build a more integrated, resilient, and efficient system of care.

“At a time when human service organizations are facing increasing societal demands and financial pressures, this partnership represents an opportunity to think strategically about the future of care in our community,” said Kristin DeForest, CEO of Family Service Association of Bucks County. “Together, we can amplify our impact while continuing to prioritize the individuals and families who rely on us every day.”

The organizations emphasized that continuity of care remains the highest priority throughout the process. Clients can expect no interruption in services, and current programs and support will remain in place as planning continues.

“This is about building a stronger support system for the people we serve,” said Jon Rubin, CEO of Penndel Mental Health Center. “By bringing together two respected organizations with shared values and complementary services, we are creating a foundation for long-term sustainability and expanded community impact.”

Together, Family Service Association of Bucks County and Penndel Mental Health Center serve thousands of individuals and families each year through behavioral health counseling, psychiatry, substance use treatment, school-based support, family strengthening services, homeless shelter and housing programs, and other community-based supports.

The organizations will continue working collaboratively in the coming months as they evaluate integration opportunities and develop a shared vision for the future.

Read the May 21 Bucks County Herald feature here.

Pennsylvania Democrats rally in support of ‘ICE Out’ bills in state Senate (June 10, WHYY)

“A group of Democratic state senators is throwing its support behind a legislative package that would restrict U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities in Pennsylvania.

‘Immigrant communities face escalating attacks, growing uncertainty and pervasive fear. That’s why we are here today,’ state Sen. Nikil Saval, D-Philadelphia, said at a press conference in Harrisburg on Tuesday. ‘Our resources should not be going to support attacks on our communities. We want ICE out of our workplaces, ICE out of our neighborhoods and ICE out of Pennsylvania.’

The legislation outlines restrictions of federal immigration enforcement activities that mirror those passed by Philadelphia City Council in April. “

Read more, share, and advocate for bipartisan support of ICE Out!
Photo Credit: Tom MacDonald/WHYY

160,000 people drop Pennie health plans following price hikes (Philadelphia Inquirer)

“One in three Pennsylvania residents who bought an Affordable Care Act health plan last year has dropped coverage for 2026, after costs more than doubled on average when a critical financial incentive program expired.

A total of 160,000 people who bought a health plan through Pennie, the state’s ACA marketplace, last year had canceled their coverage as of the end of May. That includes just under 55,000 people in the five-county Philadelphia region, figures released Tuesday show.” Read more (paywalled article).

Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania | Frontline Leader Award Nominations Are Now Being Accepted

The Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania is now accepting nominations to publicly acknowledge the significant contributions of individuals who deliver direct assistance to people in need and approach the work in an inspiring and uplifting way seeking to put the needs of clients, consumers, and/or tenants front and center.

Nomination Forms will be accepted until Friday, June 26. You must submit a separate form for each nomination if you wish to nominate multiple individuals. Award nominations will be reviewed by the selection committee, and decisions will be announced just after Labor Day.

Questions? Contact Alison at [email protected].

Children First and Maternity Care Coalition | Investing in Families to Build a Stronger Economy: A Blueprint for Pennsylvania

“Pennsylvania’s birth rate is dropping. Polling consistently shows young people are deciding not to grow their families because they financially cannot afford to have kids. Recent estimates show it takes about $32,000/year to raise a child in Pennsylvania. This is alarming for an aging state like Pennsylvania.

Investing in Families to Build a Stronger Economy: A Blueprint for Pennsylvania, a joint report by Children First and the Maternity Care Coalition, offers insights into how other states are getting it right and what Pennsylvania can accomplish in today’s political landscape. These evidence-based policy solutions are aligned with feedback from parents, family-serving organizations, and policymakers regarding what families need.” Read the full blueprint here.

First Up | The State of Home-Based Child Care in Pennsylvania

“Home‑based child care (HBCC)—a facility where four to twelve children are cared for by an unrelated caregiver in their own residence, including licensed family child care (FCC) and group child care (GCC) homes—is an essential pillar of Pennsylvania’s early childhood education (ECE) system. Representing over a quarter of all licensed ECE settings in the Commonwealth, HBCC delivers flexible, culturally responsive, and relationship‑driven care that many families cannot find elsewhere. It is especially relied upon by rural families, those working nontraditional hours, families of infants and toddlers, multilingual households, and families of color.

Despite its critical role, HBCC in Pennsylvania is in severe decline. Between November 2019 and June 2025, the state lost 27% of all HBCC programs, including one‑third of all family child care homes, even as center‑based programs saw a net increase. This contraction threatens family choice, workforce participation, and economic stability—particularly in communities where HBCC is the only viable option.” Read more.

Montgomery County Launches First-Ever Housing Blueprint

Montgomery County has announced its first-ever Housing Blueprint, a plan to ensure everyone who lives, works, learns, and invests in Montgomery County has an opportunity to live in an affordable home and a thriving community.

The plan, which aligns with and reinforces the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s comprehensive housing action plan, details strategies and goals for building up and maintaining housing supply in the County while inspiring collaboration with local, state, and federal partners. Read more!

Univest Insurance HR Consulting | Americans with Disabilities Act: Keys to Compliance

• Thurs., June 25, 11:15am-12:00pm
• Register Here

On any given day, about 3% to 4% of the U.S. workforce is absent from work and nearly one in five U.S. workers takes at least one sick day per month. Increasingly, these absences are linked not just to illness but to burnout, anxiety, substance use and chronic health conditions – many of which may be covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Yet employers often overlook the ADA’s role when managing medical absences, especially extended or intermittent leaves. While not every sick day warrants ADA consideration, failing to recognize when it does can lead to compliance gaps, legal exposure, strained employee relations and missed opportunities to support employee wellness.

Join Univest Insurance HR Consulting to learn how to confidently navigate today’s evolving leave landscape.

Building Movement Project’s Solidarity Is Cohort: Accepting Applications!

Join Building Movement Project’s Solidarity Is Cohort for a 6-week training program on transformative solidarity principles and practices tailored towards emerging activists and organizers ready to sharpen their analysis, deepen their connections, and strengthen their skills for the long struggle ahead. This cohort builds on the offerings in their Solidarity Is Practice Guide. Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open. Learn more and apply by July 20!

2027 Macro United Conference | Rebuilding the Social Contract: Policy, Power, and the Public Good

Macro social work has long played a critical role in advancing social change, strengthening communities, shaping public policy, and responding to complex social challenges. At a time of deep social, political, and economic uncertainty, the need for bold, creative, and justice-centered macro practice has never been greater. Centered around the theme, Rebuilding the Social Contract: Policy, Power, and the Public Good, Macro United 2027 invites scholars, practitioners, students, advocates, and community leaders to share ideas, research, teaching innovations, and practice strategies that help move the field forward.

Proposals that challenge conventional thinking, elevate community voice, strengthen collective action, and imagine new possibilities for equitable policy and systems change are welcomed and accepted until November 13, 2026. Learn more and submit your proposal!