Bridging Blocks

About Us

WHYY News’ Bridging Blocks program is an initiative that brings together community members on hot-button topics to foster civic dialogue in supportive spaces.

What’s Bridging Blocks?

Bridging Blocks was created to help residents build the skills to engage in civic dialogue while breaking down echo chambers.For more than two years, WHYY has successfully collaborated with the Free Library of Philadelphia, local recreation centers and small businesses to host conversations with hundreds of residents across the city on topics such as gun ownership, reproductive rights, dirt bikes and ATVs, public safety, and many more.

One of our immediate goals is to partner with local schools and senior centers to host Bridging Blocks discussions on topics important to participants of all ages. These discussions will help foster civic dialogue, build community and develop conflict mediation, public speaking, and critical thinking skills.

Testimonials

“So great to hear different perspectives from people I wouldn’t normally meet/ talk to.” – Marisa D.

“Listening is critical to learning- so many ideas” – Kate C.

“Many different views among people of good will.” Bruce H.

Tony Cuffie | Sr. Manager of Community & Engagement

Events

Gentrification: Prosperity or Displacement?

When: February 3
Where: Fishtown Community Library 1217 E Montgomery Ave Philadelphia, PA 19125

How does gentrification affect affordability and housing scarcity? Is neighborhood culture dead?

Health Care Access

When: February 4
Where: Hockessin Public Library 1023 Valley Road Hockessin, DE 19707

What can be done to ensure that Delawareans are getting the care they need?

Is Free Speech Truly Free?

When: February 10
Where: Parkway Central Library 1901 Vine Street Philadelphia, PA 19103

What are the challenges to free speech? Has social media helped or hurt free speech? Is there too much or too little freedom? Do you feel your speech is free and protected?

Bridging Blocks | Aging in the City

When: February 11, 2026
Where: Parkway Central Library 1901 Vine St Philadelphia, PA 19103

Is Philadelphia doing all it can to ensure its older residents can retire in comfort and security? What is it like for older residents in the city?

Blue Zones: Here in Bucks County? Can we make a difference?

When: February 12
Where: Friends Village 331 Lower Dolington Road Newtown, PA 18940

Is Bucks County equipped to become a Blue Zone? What can we do to make a difference?

Mummers Festival of Many Colors

When: February 17
Where: Mummers Museum 1100 S. 2nd Street Philadelphia, PA 19147

The conversation will address the traditions, challenges and the potential of Mummery as well as the annual Philly Caribbean Carnival and Carnaval de Puebla.

Economic Inequality: More than a Matter of Money

When: February 18
Where: Tredyffrin Public Library 582 Upper Gulph Road Strafford, PA 19087

Are there adequate opportunities to work toward lessening this systemic problem, or are we doomed? What economic conditions are we leaving for future generations?

Is Free Speech Truly Free?

When: February 24
Where: Paschalville Library 6942 Woodland Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19142

What are the challenges to free speech? Has social media helped or hurt free speech? Is there too much or too little freedom? Do you feel your speech is free and protected?