‘Next is Now’ program aims to help Philadelphians network this summer

Philadelphia officials recently announced the launch of Next is Now, a program focused on helping Philadelphians ages 18-35 network, collaborate, and build partnerships through various events planned throughout the city this summer.

Through the program, the city’s Office of Policy and Strategic Initiatives for Criminal Justice & Public Safety (CJPS) will host events every second Saturday of the month.

Next is Now aims to provide a space to build connections with community leaders while sharing resources. Involvement in the event series offers access to future technical assistance and better awareness of funding opportunities for nonprofits working in the community to address gun violence.

“It is more critical now than ever that we provide engaging and meaningful activities and summer programming for our youth, especially on weekends,” said Mayor Jim Kenney in a statement. “With our young people disproportionately impacted by violence in Philadelphia, it is critical that we work together to find ways to keep them safe, while providing opportunities to take their community’s future into their own hands.”

The Next is Now Series is running all summer long on the following dates: July 9, from 1-3 p.m. in West Philadelphia; Aug. 13, from 1-3 p.m. in North Philadelphia; and Sept. 10, from 1-3 p.m. in Germantown.

For information, email CJPS at cjps@phila.gov or follow on social media at @PhillyAlive215.