We envision a new kind of milestone commemoration in which every Philadelphian feels included and neighborhoods can benefit from programs that create lasting civic, cultural and economic impact across the city. PHILADELPHIA250 and its Community Advisory Committee care deeply about Philadelphia and the opportunity our nation’s 250th anniversary presents to catalyze meaningful change in our community.
PHL250’s Community Advisory Committee will advise, steward and collaborate on the People’s Commemoration of the 250th. The Committee will connect PHL250 programs to neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia to enhance outreach, foster inclusion and create opportunities for 2026 and beyond.
We do this by building trust and creating pathways for collaboration; providing opportunities for community feedback, partnering on citywide initiatives and sharing economic, civic, and cultural leadership opportunities for the 250th in Philadelphia.
The Committee will acknowledge, embrace and leverage the diversity of Philadelphia – in terms of identity, expertise, and lived experience. We develop trust by building relationships between individuals and groups and developing processes in which all people feel seen and heard. Committee members will listen and learn from one another with a spirit of welcoming and belonging.
PH250’s Community Advisory Committee will grow to include more people each year with 50 in total by 2026. Community Advisory Committee members serve as a key sounding board for PHILADELPHIA250 leadership. We ask advisory members to help in the following ways:
Advise and promote PHILADELPHIA250’s programs and projects.
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Expand outreach networks with residents and institutions to ensure a citywide, inclusive, diverse, and accessible 250th in Philadelphia.
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Attend and participate in PHILADELPHIA250 events. Serve as an ambassador and co-host for programs, ceremonies and community events.
Carlos Aponte
Executive Director – We Love Philly
Hillary Do
Executive Director – Philly BOLT
Bill Rhoads
Senior Vice President – Esperanza Arts Center
Stan Straughter
Chairman – African and Caribbean Business Council of Greater Philadelphia
Cornelia Swinson
Executive Director – Johnson House
Shalimar Thomas
Executive Director – North Broad Renaissance
No other city in America will have a more inclusive or transformational 250th than Philadelphia.
The people of Philadelphia are what makes Philly great. To make our collective future even greater, Community Advisors will inspire, innovate, and learn from one another. Applicants must live within the City of Philadelphia.
We encourage people to apply who:
Are prepared to commit 5-10 hours per month to the Community Advisory Committee. Attend meetings and outreach events and more
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Are passionate for Philadelphia and its future
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Are respectful, tolerant and welcome interactions and dialogues with people from diverse backgrounds
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Are helpful to be a willing advocate, attend and spread the word about PHL250 and the 250th anniversary of the county
We offer these benefits:
Opportunities to attend signature citywide events
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A platform to signal boost your neighborhood or nonprofit
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Leadership development and learning opportunities from peers
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A yearly honorarium