PowerCorps debut class shows promise in Philadelphia

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You’ve heard of the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps, but what about Power Corps?

 

The Power Corps is an offshoot of AmeriCorps and PennServe, designed to train at-risk youth to protect the environment and help with park maintenance in Philadelphia. They do get paid for their work, and receive job placement help.

Deputy Mayor for Environmental and Community Resources Mike DiBerardinis says the youth have done a great job during their first year with tasks such a tree pruning.

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“We’re going to take care of these public resources and keep them in as best shape and have them be the highest quality for the use of our citizens in the city,” he said. ” We’re going to work every day to connect young people to those resources and let those people succeed.”

Juan Jeffries is hopeful his experience in the program will help him land a permanent job.

“We keep our city of Philadelphia cleaner and greener because this city is what we know and what we love,” Jeffries said. “PowerCorps wants Philadelphia looking beautiful for our children and our families.”

Organizers hope to expand the initial class of 50 to 100 for next year.

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