Our History
At historic Tindley Temple United Methodist Church, on September 25, 2011, POWER’s Founding Convention brought together 2,000 congregational members, allies, and Philadelphia city officials to affirm a change agenda in 5 priority areas. The Convention also cemented commitments from labor leaders, City Councilman Bill Green, and Mayor Michael Nutter, to work with POWER to address unemployment in Philadelphia. Many long-time observers and leaders of community activism in Philadelphia independently agreed that POWER’s Founding Convention was the largest grassroots civic gathering for change the city had seen in years, if not decades.
Present
Ten years later, our original group of 37 Philadelphia congregations has grown to more than 100 across ten Pennsylvania counties. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we invite active member congregations and faith communities, individual members, community leaders, and partner organizations to join us in continuing to build a POWERful statewide movement for racial and economic justice on a livable planet.
Festivities
Our celebration will last all year long — check this space for many opportunities to be part of POWER's history and future!
Sponsors
Old First United Church of Christ
Scott Kerber Home Repairs and Improvements
Anniversary Committee
Janis Moore Campbell, Temple University
Rev. Donna Jones, Cookman Beloved Community, Metropolitan Christian Council of Philadelphia
Frances Upshaw, Calvary St. Augustine Episcopal Church
Kathy T. Hettinga, Design Consultant
Rev. Yvette Davis
TaWanda Stallworth, M.Div.
Rev. Rebecca Stephens
Rev. Kim Kendrick