Violet Comber-Wilen
Reporter
Violet Comber-Wilen is a general assignment reporter for Billy Penn. She has several years of experience in public radio and journalism; Violet spent her last two years working full time as a audio, digital and video reporter for Indiana Public Broadcasting, Indiana’s collaboration of NPR and PBS stations. Beyond this, she reported, hosted and produced for Tampa Bay’s NPR station, WUSF, and the North Central Florida NPR station, WUFT News.
She is passionate about inspiring and enacting change in local communities and covering issues local audiences care about. She is a proud graduate of the University of Florida. Outside of work, you can catch Violet training for her latest half or full marathon, enjoying workout studios around the city, doing yoga, traveling or exploring arts and culture.
More from the Contributor
Cooking up community: Library’s free program brings together literacy, food
The Free Library of Philadelphia’s Edible Alphabet program fosters community and language learning through cooking.
1 month ago
John Obringer uses an Etch A Sketch to draw Philly sports logos, the LOVE sign and the Philly skyline. Others are buying his artwork.
1 month ago
Kensington library offers alternative while public libraries are closed
The Simple Library gives Kensington residents a space to read and gather, with plans for student book clubs during school year.
2 months ago
Philly’s Bookstore Crawl returns Aug. 23, bigger and better than ever
The event offers discounts, giveaways and book signings in and around the city. This year’s crawl will host a variety of authors and parties/events.
2 months ago
‘Ripple effect’: SNAP cuts to affect local healthy-living programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education programs in the city will lose funding Oct. 1. Decades-long programs are expected to go away.
2 months ago
As back-to-school season nears, Philly teacher shortages remain
Philly has a need for more certified teachers. Experts say a solution is multifaceted.
3 months ago
Fab Youth Philly brings playful learning to city’s Playstreets
The organization’s Play Captain program allows teens to become leaders through workforce development training and activity leading on Playstreets.
3 months ago
SNAP cuts have Philadelphia’s food banks nervous about increased needs
Billy Penn spoke with experts and food leaders about how recent legislation will worsen food insecurity in the region.
3 months ago
Fair City Challenge invests in solutions to promote equity in Philly’s neighborhoods
The Economy League’s competition gives finalists a chance to develop programs that can help make city neighborhoods more equitable and inclusive.
3 months ago
New online resource aims to make recycling more accessible
resourcePhilly is a search engine that allows Philadelphians to find places to bring hard-to-recycle items or donate items, among other features.
3 months ago
Day 3 of DC33 strike: No talks planned as tensions, and trash piles, rise
An overnight negotiating session failed to close the gap between the city and union negotiators, threatening to impact the holiday weekend.
4 months ago
Organization pulls Kensington community together by spreading wifi outdoors
Wi-fi is often installed in indoor, public places – but what about outdoor spaces? One organization is helping to bridge the gap near Norris Square Park.
4 months ago