West Philly will see a manual make-over with over 500 volunteers coming together for ACHIEVEability’s second Impact Day.
The activation, presented by URBN, will take place this Friday, April 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and focus on the restoration of homes and public spaces in West Philadelphia.
“At URBN, we lead with creativity—it influences everything from the products we design to the partnerships we build,” said Dave Ziel, Chief Development Officer of URBN, which is comprised of brands including Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People and more. “Impact Day puts our creative spirit to work alongside ACHIEVEability and West Philly residents, helping to shape a neighborhood that reflects their vision, resilience, and joy.”
The Day started in 2024 and already has seen big impacts. Last year’s event led to the rehabilitation of 52 homes, upgrades to 11 businesses, the planting of 10 trees, the construction of 20 picnic tables, and the installation of five mini-libraries, beautifying more than 50 neighborhood blocks. As a release notes, this year’s plan is to revitalize 150 homes, install 10 additional mini-libraries, beautify 50+ more neighborhood blocks, restore and enhance community green spaces and open a community garden.
The efforts will focus on the 5400 to 6300 blocks of Market Street to Haverford Avenue. In that area, volunteers will sweep streets, pull weeds, remove litter, care for newly planted trees along the 60th Street corridor, prep gardens for the growing season, power wash, paint, install mailboxes and planters, and even create mini free libraries, craft Mother’s Day cards, plus place wreaths and hanging planters throughout the neighborhood.
“Impact Day is a testament to the power of community and what can be accomplished when people come together with a shared vision,” added Jamila Harris-Morrison, Executive Director of ACHIEVEability. “Last year, we saw the incredible difference volunteers made in just one day, and this year, we’re aiming even higher. By revitalizing homes, beautifying public spaces, and strengthening our neighborhood, we’re not just transforming West Philadelphia—we’re investing in the people who call it home.”
In 2024, ACHIEVEability raised $250,000 to support its community revitalization efforts. In 2025, with URBN’s leadership, the nonprofit is setting its sights on a fundraising goal of $300,000 to expand anti-poverty programs and deepen neighborhood impact, the organization notes.
Volunteer opportunities are open to residents, corporate teams, and nonprofit partners, and for those who can’t make it out but still want to lend a helping hand, online donations are also welcome.
For more information, visit achieveability.app.neoncrm.com
