Join us in celebrating a year of innovation, growth, and impact! With new programs, resources, and partnerships, PYN has continued to lead the way in creating career-connected learning opportunities for Philadelphia’s youth. Check out some of the highlights from an extraordinary year:

2024 Winter/Spring Programming:
The year began with the launch of two flagship programs, WorkReady BOOST and WorkReady VIP, which provided transformative opportunities for hundreds of young people across the city in 2024. These programs offered career exposure and essential skills training, equipping youth with tools for success in a rapidly changing workforce.
Over spring break 2024, PYN collaborated with Hilco Redevelopment Partners at The Bellwether District to host an engaging Engineering Exposure Bootcamp. This immersive, weeklong program featured hands-on activities and information sessions that introduced participants to careers in engineering and development. Read more on our blog here.
As part of our spring programming, PYN partnered with Musicopia, where youth were exposed to careers in the arts through music education in local district schools. Participants joined drumline percussion programs led by teaching artists and mentors, gaining skills development, career awareness, and mentorship in the performing arts sector. Beyond rehearsal hours, participants completed 20 hours of paid professional development focused on financial literacy, resume building, and career exposure in the arts and entertainment sector.
In collaboration with Philly Truce, PYN offered a hands-on program focused on social-emotional learning and mentorship for young men of color to achieve economic independence. The program included literacy, conflict resolution, and financial management workshops, culminating in a community service-based paid work experience.
PYN’s Banking Blueprint: A Financial Literacy Resource

This year also saw the release of PYN’s Banking Blueprint, a comprehensive guide designed to help youth navigate the world of personal finance. The resource empowers young people to understand banking, budgeting, and financial planning—skills that are essential for lifelong success. Check out PYN's Banking Blueprint Resource!
New Afterschool Programs: Expanding Career-Connected Learning
In 2024, PYN launched two new afterschool programs:
21st Century Career Connected Learning Programs: Designed for middle and high school students, this initiative offered hands-on experiences in STEM, arts, and media to help students explore future career paths.
IGNITE Afterschool: Focused on middle school students, IGNITE provided career exposure through engaging activities in STEM, arts, and sports, fostering curiosity and ambition in younger learners.
Read all about it and check out the highlights from our Lights On Afterschool Celebration at www.pyninc.org/afterschool and on our blog here.
Unlock Potential: Empowering Justice-Involved Youth

The Philadelphia Youth Network (PYN) partnered with the Responsible Business Initiatives for Justice (RBIJ) to launch the Philadelphia chapter of Unlock Potential (UP), a groundbreaking program designed to empower justice-involved youth and young adults. Prioritizing those most disconnected from opportunity, UP provides meaningful paid work experience, jobsite training, mentorship, and pathways to future careers within its cohort of partner organizations.
Read more here - www.pyninc.org/unlock-potential
Summer Success: C2L PHL and WorkReady BOOST
Summer 2024 was marked by robust programming, including partnerships with C2L PHL and the continued success of WorkReady BOOST. Through PYN's summer programs over 400 youth gained real-world experience through internships and career exposure opportunities. The summer also featured site visits to employers like PECO and Accenture, where participants engaged with industry leaders and explored innovative workplaces.
The WorkReady VIP program tailored opportunities for individuals aged 14 to 24 in Philadelphia’s highest-priority violence-affected zip codes. This initiative paired career development experiences with violence prevention services, access to trauma-informed support, and community development programs, creating a holistic approach to youth empowerment.
End-of-Summer Celebration

To mark the end of a successful summer, PYN hosted a Summer Celebration to recognize the achievements of program participants. The event featured a celebration ceremony, career panel discussions, networking opportunities, and reflections on the impact of WorkReady BOOST and other initiatives. It was a moment to honor the dedication of youth, partners, and supporters who made the summer programs possible.
Recognition in City Council: A Milestone Achievement
PYN’s 25th anniversary was celebrated in an open session of Philadelphia City Council, where a resolution introduced by Council Member Anthony Phillips honored PYN’s decades of service. This acknowledgment underscores the organization’s vital role in shaping the city’s future workforce.
Fall Highlights: WorkReady BOOST Expands Opportunities
The year concluded with a successful Fall WorkReady BOOST program. This season’s participants built on the foundation laid earlier in the year, engaging in meaningful work experiences that prepared them for the next steps in their careers. Employers across various sectors partnered with PYN to offer impactful opportunities, demonstrating the strength of PYN’s business engagement strategy.
Looking Ahead
As we close out 2024, PYN remains committed to empowering Philadelphia’s youth through innovative programs, strong partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to workforce development. With the momentum of this year, we look forward to making an even greater impact in 2025.
Thank you to all our partners, funders, and supporters who have made this year possible. Together, we are building a brighter future for the youth of Philadelphia!
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