Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles are actively contributing to efforts against gun violence in the city. As part of their ongoing commitment, they are participating in Wear Orange Weekend, which honors victims of gun violence and supports community-building initiatives aimed at ending such violence.

Recent data from the Office of the Controller indicates a 36 percent decrease in gun violence homicides in Philadelphia since 2023. Despite this progress, there is still significant work to be done compared to the peak levels seen in 2021.

In November, the Eagles awarded $290,250 through The Eagles Social Justice Fund of the Philadelphia Foundation to nine nonprofits focused on reducing gun violence. Among these organizations is ACHIEVEability, which aims to break poverty cycles for low-income families by offering education and employment opportunities. Their initiative, 60th Street Strong Coalition, provides training and mentorship for young adults affected by or involved in gun violence.

Jamila Harris-Morrison, Executive Director of ACHIEVEability, highlighted the importance of community-led solutions: "I think everyone activated in 2020 and 2021 when gun violence really started to soar," she said. She believes that sustained efforts will lead to significant changes over the next decade.

Harris-Morrison was also honored with the NFL Changemaker Award for her contributions across several focus areas including education and criminal justice reform. In recognition, the Eagles donated an additional $10,000 to ACHIEVEability and invited her to Super Bowl LVIII.

Another grant recipient is PAR-Recycle Works, an electronics recycling organization providing jobs for individuals returning from prison. Their program aims to reduce recidivism rates while enhancing employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated people.

Maurice Jones, General Manager of PAR-Recycle Works stated: "PAR-Recycle Works is grateful for a grant we received from the Eagles Social Justice Fund supporting our program that deters our program participants (previously incarcerated individuals) from recidivating and engaging in violence."

The Eagles' collaboration with PAR-Recycle Works includes their Go Green sustainability initiative where fans can recycle electronics while supporting social justice missions.

Applications for 2024 grants from The Eagles Social Justice Fund are now open. Eligible organizations must be classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or have a qualifying fiscal sponsor within Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware tri-state area. Grants typically do not exceed $50,000 and depend on available funds within The Eagles Social Justice Fund.

Nonprofits meeting these criteria are encouraged to apply online for consideration.