Summer Camp Scholarship Initiative: Building Safer Summers in Philly

Summer in Philadelphia is often a season of contradictions. While many young people look forward to long days of sunshine, recreation, and freedom, the warmer months are also historically marked by an increase in violence across the city. Too often, young people are caught in cycles of crime, unsafe environments, or a lack of positive outlets. For parents and community leaders, the challenge has always been how to transform those long summer days into safe, productive opportunities for growth.

This summer, the National Black Police Association (NBPA) stepped forward to meet that challenge with its Summer Camp Scholarship Initiative, a program rooted in mentorship, education, and holistic care. Recognizing that prevention begins with investment, the NBPA designed the day to give children not only a safe environment but also enriching experiences that foster self-expression, cultural pride, and healthy living.

At the center of this six-week initiative was NBPA President David Fisher and his dedicated team members, Stephanie Purnell and Miya Anderson, who carefully curated programming to reflect the association’s mission of uplifting the next generation. The program was hosted at Gloria’s Place, part of the People’s Emergency Center, which provides emergency shelter and supportive services to homeless families. The camp featured a unique blend of activities like dance lessons, Black history works

hops, and health care discussions. Each component was chosen to help children build confidence, identity, and awareness in a way that could ripple far beyond the summer. One of the most memorable highlights came from the dance class. Miya Anderson, a proud NBPA member and advocate for youth empowerment, joined the initiative by joining in dance lessons with young girls in the camp. Her sessions were more than just about rhythm and movement; they were about sisterhood, teamwork, and self-expression. Equally important were the Black history lessons, where children learned about heroes, innovators, and leaders whose legacies continue to shape their communities today. These sessions instilled a sense of pride and connected the campers to a broader narrative of resilience and achievement.

The NBPA also understood that caring for young people means addressing their immediate needs. The organization distributed personal hygiene supplies to juveniles, ensuring that dignity and self-care remained part of the camp experience. Health care discussions were facilitated by professionals who spoke openly with the youth about wellness, nutrition, and preventative care, empowering them to take ownership of their health.

Through it all, the NBPA’s presence served as a reminder that police-community relationships can be rooted in trust, care, and shared commitment. The NBPA Summer Camp Scholarship Initiative reflects the very pillars the organization stands on. Our focus on mentorship includes guiding young people toward positive choices and bright futures. Our dedication to volunteering showed the power of giving time and energy to uplift the Philadelphia community. Finally, our commitment to networking through connecting youth with role models, educators, and leaders who can open doors of opportunity.

In Philadelphia, a city where summers can all too often turn violent, the NBPA chose to create a summer of safety, empowerment, and hope. The initiative is more than just a fun day at camp, but a testament to what happens when law enforcement, community leaders, and mentors invest in the next generation. Summer has ended, but our mission continues!

We encourage you to comment below to share how your summer went!