Community and Family

Gun violence prevention hotline aims to connect Philadelphians to resources

The City of Philadelphia’s 2-1-1 line is serving a new purpose: connecting people affected by gun violence to groups offering help. The 2-1-1 hotline was already a gateway for those experiencing food insecurity and needing housing services. But now callers can dial in and choose option three, which gives them access to the city’s new 24/7 gun violence prevention hotline. | From: WHYY (Read more.)

Community and Family

Dope Shows continues to use art to inspire youth of the city

When the concert promotional company launched almost five years ago, co-founders and friends Stephen Piner and Jamir Shaw set out to create a new path in the entertainment industry not just for themselves, but for the youth of Philadelphia. Growing up in West Philly, the duo made the realization that in the world of entertainment, there was a void that needed to be filled—one where there could be captivating performances and events that doubled as compelling messages for the community that has never been done in quite this way before. | From: Metro Philly (Read more.)

BIP Finale

Philly LGBTQ realtors provide safe spaces for their queer clients

Similar to having a queer therapist or doctor who’s familiar with their patients’ life experiences, LGBTQ realtors are often a culturally competent fit for LGBTQ home buyers and sellers. Queer realtors may be more attuned to using gender-neutral language, or avoiding terms that may lead to assumptions about a client or colleague’s sexual orientation or gender identity. | From: Philadelphia Gay News (Read more.)