Fernhill Park’s Food Forest is a community-led initiative in Germantown, Philadelphia, that transforms 51 acres of public land into a sustainable, regenerative space for growing food and fostering community connections. Guided by permaculture principles and neighborhood engagement, the forest serves as an educational hub and a resource for food-insecure families, offering neighbors an inclusive space to volunteer, learn, and cultivate relationships with the land and each other.
We Walk PHL is a citywide initiative that brings people together for free, guided walks in over 30 parks and recreation centers. Focused on improving health, fitness, and community connection, these walks offer participants a chance to meet new people, stay active, and explore their neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking to boost your fitness or find a sense of community, We Walk PHL has a path for everyone.
Mekia Elizabeth and Raheim Brown grew up around Southwest Germantown. Alongside their neighbors they have built a community-centered pay-what-you-wish cafe, dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence in the neighborhood youth and connecting everyone to harmony in themselves and the land.
Fernhill and Vernon Hill Park organic land management may pave the way for citywide practices.