A Big Thank You: 5th Annual Called To Serve Charity Golf Outing Sponsored by Raptor Trading Systems9/23/2024  On Saturday, September 14th, we had the pleasure of hosting our 5th Annual Called To Serve Charity Golf Outing Sponsored by Raptor Trading Systems at the Walnut Lane Golf Course in Philadelphia. The event was a huge success, bringing together dedicated participants, generous sponsors, and a shared commitment to support the Nicetown-Tioga neighborhood through the impactful work of Called To Serve. In addition to Raptor Trading Systems, this year’s outing was proudly supported by the following sponsors: Temple Health Systems Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University BHG Consulting Mosaic Development Partners JV University Lodge No. 51 Diantonio’s Events and Catering Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust Matty G Inc. North 10 Philadelphia Regional Foundation LLC Viviani Brothers Bee Bergvall & Co CPA's Black Taxi/Henry James Saloon Muldoon & Shields LLC Philly Auto Show Watchdog USA We were fortunate to have such a strong turnout for both the golf and the camaraderie that followed, with prizes, food, beverages, and great conversation enjoyed by all. The contributions from our sponsors and participants will help us continue supporting local businesses, providing essential resources to students, and funding community programs like literacy and computer programming initiatives. Thank you to everyone who participated, sponsored, and volunteered. Your contributions are helping Called To Serve make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many within our community. We look forward to seeing you next year for the 6th Annual Called To Serve Charity Golf Outing!
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We hope everyone is enjoying their summer! Our 5th annual Called To Serve Golf Outing Sponsored by Raptor Trading Systems is scheduled for Saturday, September 14th at the Walnut Lane Golf Course in Philadelphia and would like to invite you to the event. The format, again this year, is Breakfast and Registration 8:00 AM and a Shotgun start beginning @ 9:00 AM. The Called To Serve Golf Outing is the inspiration of Rev. Mike Major to raise funds for the important work that CTS provides for the residents of the Nicetown-Tioga neighborhood of North Philadelphia. Called To Serve in a grassroots organization dedicated to the complete renewal, restoration, and revitalization of these underserved neighborhoods. CTS’s primary focus is its mission of working within the community to revitalize and help local businesses thrive, along with helping and providing for better educational opportunities for neighborhood students so that they may reach their potential and achieve academically success. The money raised through this event is used help meet these goals and, in the past, has been used for:
We look forward to your joining us at Walnut Lane Golf Course. Our past events have been successful not only for the golf, but for the food, beverages, prizes and most of all for the friendship and common goals of helping a great cause. We look forward to carrying on that tradition. Individual golfers and foursomes (or trios or pairs) are welcome. We also have sponsorships available at different levels if you are interested. Your past help and partnership in our efforts to deliver children a quality education and provide the kind of support that entrepreneurs need to develop successful businesses is still needed and is very much appreciated. We again look to providing you a great day of enjoyment and at the same time, contribute to a good and worthy program. Help us make a difference We look forward to seeing you September 14, 2024. You can sign up using this www.bit.ly/ctsgolf2024 and the flyer is attached. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. See the attached sponsorship flyer or use the link. Donations may be made here if you are unable to join us.   To close out Black History Month, Called to Serve's Amelia Price delivered a speech to the Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine's "White Coats for Black Lives" event. She had the following to say: Good morning and thank you for this invitation.
I consider this an honor to be your guest speaker for such a prestigious ceremony “White Coats For Black Lives” to close out Black History month. As I stand before you, I see a beautiful sea of doctors in white jackets. I remember when I first starting interviewing as a community interviewer three years ago. About three months in to interviewing, I interviewed a medical professional who I will NEVER forget. I asked questions and each time, I could not believe what I was hearing. My final question to him was “What does it mean to you to have bedside manners in the health field especially in a marginalized community?” He replied, “Statistically minorities exaggerate their pain more than others. Most of the patients he did not believe they were in severe pain. He had a routine; when he entered a patient’s room, he would sit with his back to them and would not say anything to them for the first couple of minutes. If the patient is really in pain they will say something to me.” I was so stunned and disgusted with what he said. I noticed the facial reaction of the two other students who I was interviewing, they were appalled. Every question I asked him, he was insensitive. I was so shocked, that after my interviews were over, I asked the admissions staff, was that a mock interview I had just done. I could not believe a medical professional who had over ten years under his belt, could be so arrogant, bias and racist. It is one thing to hear unprofessional health stories, it is another thing to experience it ‘first hand’; Systemic Unethical Health behavior. On a day my family and I would normally be celebrating my son’s birthday, I woke up in excruciating pain three o’clock in the morning. I texted a doctor and explained what I was going through. They replied back immediately. “I will contact one of my colleagues and see if they can get you in”. An hour later, I received a call, they were able to get me an appointment for 8 AM. They asked me to text them my insurance information, DOB, address etc. The doctor did all the leg work for me. All I had to do was show up for the appointment. I arrived a half an hour ahead of time. I was greeted by the security guard who was so pleasant. She could see I was in pain. She asked me, did I have an appointment. I said, yes, 8 AM. She checked the list of patients scheduled, my name was not on the list. She extended an apology. I explained in detail how my appointment was scheduled. She advised, she would let the doctors know. Again, I was told I could not be seen. It dawned on me, pull my phone out, I had all the text messages between myself and this doctor. I showed the security guard the messages and asked her to take my phone back and show it to the doctors. She came back apologizing to me. Go figure, the security guard extends the apology, ‘not the medical staff.’ A staff member came out to speak with me, she was very short with me. She advised I had to go to another area to register and show proof of my insurance. I went to the receptionist, she advised, I had to call my insurance company and have them to call her to verify I had insurance since I was not a patient. Eventually, my name was called and I was taken back to an exam room. After seeing two doctors and enduring physical pain from each, I was advised they had scheduled me for another appointment to go to another unit. I went home streaming with tears, feelings hurt. I believe my appointment was scheduled for 1:00 pm. Again I was a half an hour early. I was the first patient there. I noticed patients coming in being seen and I was never called on. I sat a couple of hours waiting patiently. I was in so much pain, I went to the receptionist and asked, why I had not been called. “She replied, Oh Adrian, you were seen already, you can leave”. I let her know my name was not Adrian and gave her my correct name. She looks in the system, makes a call, excuses herself, goes in the back, comes back to the front desk and she tells me, “you had surgery this morning, you can go home”. I said excuse me, I did not have surgery earlier this morning. To make a long horrible story short, I went through pure hell the entire day. I guess I was one too many patients added on and I paid dearly for it. I was treated like a one and done, someone begging in a soup line. My physical pain was exacerbated to emotional and mental pain, they treated me as insignificant. Both doctors from the examination, probing and pulling made the pain ten times worst. I felt they were deliberately callous and very insensitive to the excruciating pain they inflicted. They were not culturally sensitive or compassionate. My horrible and unforgettable experience with them affirmed to me, these two doctors have truly lost sight of what it is to be mindful of patients in their care - who are most vulnerable. The ONLY PERSON who remembered my name and was so kind to me was the security guard. As I was leaving, She said, “Ms. Price are you okay”. I shook my head NO. The only holistic treatment I received was from the security guard. Mr. Solomon Jones, was the guest speaker on January 15th for Lewis Katz School of Medicine - Day of Activism. He shared his truth about a bad experience that happened to him 18 years ago. His story reminded me about my experience. Too sum it all up about Mr. Solomon Jones “Never judge a book by its cover”, “A picture of him now paints a thousand words of success and prosperity compared to 18 years ago when he was homeless and strung out on drugs.” By the way, it was a doctor that was mean spirited to him and it was two medical students who breathed life back into his spirit, just by sneaking him two cookies. The security guard was my angel of kindness. First encounters with a patient can leave a lasting impression. You have one time to get it right or get it wrong. One bad treatment from a medical professional can be very traumatizing. A patient can be very reluctant to ever follow-up with an appointment because of how they were treated, especially if they are vulnerable and do not have the fight in them. I have suffered in silence the past two years just as so many patients continue to. There are many beautiful hidden gems in marginalized communities. What is missing in the health field is more warm smiles, kind words, a helping hand, advocacy and accountability from doctors who have done a medical injustice to a patient. To me, bedside manners at its core is “respecting the humanity of your patient”. Your white jacket is supposed to represent “empathy and understanding”. Your patient should never feel intimidated by your white jacket; they should feel “THEY ARE SAFE IN YOUR HANDS”. I will sum up with the following:
I challenge you to help change the narrative of medicine; keep the holistic side of medicine at the forefront of your medical practice. Build relationships through trust. Marginalized communities will have healthier patients. I will leave you with one of the questions I ask during my interviews’ “Hypothetically, you have graduated, finished your residency, and received your medical license. You are now an independent physician working at Temple University Hospital. You happen to walk past a patient’s room and you witness one of your colleagues treating a patient from this community unjustly, What would you do?" There is a big world out there waiting for you; make your mark on medical history! Thank you! As the year draws to a close, we at Called to Serve reflect on the vibrant tapestry of initiatives, events, and accomplishments that have marked 2023 in North Philadelphia. From the inception of the BriDDge Career Pathways Program, which opened new horizons in digital skills for many, to the heartwarming involvement with Bethune Elementary during 'Reading Across America', each step we took was a stride towards empowerment and growth. The Cleaning Ambassador Program, under Rev. Harvey Bass, not only beautified our streets but also instilled a sense of community pride. Our advocacy for digital equity and job readiness resonated across neighborhoods, breaking down barriers and forging new opportunities. The legacy of Rev. Leon H. Sullivan continued to inspire our efforts, reminding us of the power of collective action in addressing social disparities, especially in the construction industry. The academic achievements celebrated at Bethune and Kenderton Elementary schools were a testament to the potential within every child, nurtured through community support. Each month brought its unique challenges and triumphs, but the underlying theme remained constant: a commitment to nurturing educational, economic, and social empowerment. As we step into the new year, we carry with us the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the unwavering spirit of service that defines our community in North Philadelphia.  At Called to Serve (CTS), we believe in nurturing the dreams and aspirations of young minds in underserved communities. Our commitment to this cause was joyously evident on November 1st, as we celebrated the outstanding achievements of the Honor Roll students at Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School in Philadelphia. A Day of Recognition and Pride The air at Bethune Elementary was filled with excitement and pride as students, teachers, and CTS volunteers gathered to honor the academic accomplishments of these young scholars. These students, through their hard work and dedication, have set a shining example for their peers, proving that with perseverance, any goal is attainable. A Broader Commitment to Education Our involvement with Bethune Elementary extends beyond this celebration. As part of our ongoing efforts, CTS has been actively participating in the Philadelphia School District’s Read By 4th program. Our volunteers spend valuable time reading to children from kindergarten through second grade, fostering a love for reading and learning from an early age. Additionally, our Café Bethune initiative provides a catered luncheon for 'Students of the Month,' acknowledging and rewarding consistent efforts in academia and character development. This program not only celebrates academic achievement but also encourages a positive school culture. A Community United for Progress The success of these initiatives, and especially the Honor Roll celebration, highlights the importance of community involvement in education. Our efforts at Bethune Elementary are a testament to the power of collective action in bringing about meaningful change and opportunity in underserved neighborhoods. As we continue our journey with Bethune Elementary, we remain committed to the complete renewal, restoration, and revitalization of these communities. We believe that every child deserves a quality education and the chance to reach their fullest potential. Through our continued partnership and the support of the community, we look forward to fostering more such moments of triumph and joy. Celebrating Rev. Leon H. Sullivan's 101st Birthday: A Beacon of Hope and Economic Empowerment10/20/2023 This past Monday, a significant gathering took place at Zion Baptist Church, an event that reverberated with gratitude, reverence, and hope. This wasn't just any gathering; it was a special celebration to commemorate the 101st birthday of Rev. Leon H. Sullivan, an icon of dedication, social justice, and community empowerment. The occasion was the Economic Construction Forum, a joint venture of two esteemed organizations, Called to Serve and the National Contractors' Coalition Association. Set against the backdrop of the church, the forum was not just a remembrance of Rev. Sullivan's immense contributions but also an opportunity to drive forward the mission he believed in so passionately. As part of Construction Inclusion Week, the forum was a testament to the ever-growing importance of diversity and inclusion in the construction industry, particularly in the Philadelphia region. The array of voices that convened for this event was a testament to its significance. Key figures from the industry, including Allen Riddick from Drexel University, Rodney Davis from Turner Construction, Lily Reynolds from the City of Philadelphia, and Ernest Davis from EDavis Electrical Training and Services, took the stage. They shared their vision and insights into what lies ahead for small and minority-owned construction firms. Their collective message emphasized the importance of fostering equal opportunities and resources for all players in the construction arena. Rev. Sullivan’s spirit was palpable in the room. A titan in his own right, he spent his lifetime as an advocate for social justice. He not only voiced concerns about societal inequalities but actively worked to bridge those gaps. His deep-rooted belief in empowering communities and advocating for justice is what makes him such an influential figure in Philadelphia and beyond. As the community eagerly anticipates the inauguration of a community center named in his honor, it's clear that Rev. Sullivan's legacy is as alive today as it was during his lifetime. At Called to Serve, Rev. Sullivan’s teachings are not just remembered; they are lived. His principles guide every endeavor, every outreach, every mission. As we reflect on the rich tapestry of his life and his indelible contributions, we are also looking forward to what's next. Championing diversity, promoting inclusion, and ensuring equitable opportunities in the construction industry – these are more than just goals. They are a pledge, a commitment, and a path forward. As we move ahead, it's crucial to remember stalwarts like Rev. Sullivan who paved the way, reminding us always to serve, uplift, and empower. It's upon us now to take that legacy forward, ensuring that the foundations he laid are built upon with vigor, respect, and dedication. The Called To Serve Charity Golf Outing sponsored by Raptor Trading Systems held its fourth annual installment on September 16. All proceeds supported Called To Serve's efforts to provide quality education opportunities for students attending Kenderton & Bethune elementary schools (located in the Tioga section of North Philadelphia) and access to living-wage jobs for adults living in Tioga. Seventeen foursomes participated in the event, along with a number of those playing a variety of games available in addition to the golfing activities. Thank you too all who participated in this momentous event and we look forward to seeing everyone back next year! Special thanks to our sponsors: Raptor Trading Systems, Inc.; the Lewis Katz School of Medicine; Schultz & Williams; North10 Philadelphia; Temple University Health System; ThinkerStreet LLC; Viviani Brothers Professional Garment Care; American Overhead Door & Dock; Matty G Inc.; Muldoon & Shields LLC; Philadelphia Auto Show; Morey Nee Buck & Oswald, CPAs; Bee, Bergvall & Co CPSs; Black Taxi/Henry James Saloon; Watchdog; and the Supper Society.
The Rev. Leon H. Sullivan Community Impact Center, an initiative led by Called to Serve CDC and the Sullivan CDC has announced significant additional funding aimed at sustainability, climate resilience, and historic rehabilitation.
The William Penn Foundation, renowned for its dedication to fostering vibrant communities, has granted $110,000 to the project. This new funding will allow CTS to retain sustainability experts to provide specialized energy modeling and green building accreditation services to ensure the project will be climate resilient and sustainable in the long term. “Called to Serve identified the need for this work while participating in a program designed to help WPF-funded organizations improve the resilience and long-term sustainability of their capital improvement projects “This grant reflects our commitment to ensuring that the public and community spaces that we support are contributing to community climate resilience,” said Cara Ferrentino, Senior Program Advisor at the William Penn Foundation. “The team behind the Rev. Leon H. Sullivan Community Impact Center are leaders in recognizing the importance of embedding climate resiliency and operational and environmental sustainability into their plans-- for the benefit of the neighborhood in the long term.” Moreover, the project has received $150,000 in Pennsylvania Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits. These funds will support the delicate and respectful transformation of the Zion Baptist Church Annex, a cherished part of North Philadelphia's architectural heritage. The tax credit funding will ensure that the renovation process preserves the historical integrity of the Annex while adapting it into a modern, functional space for community use. "This combination of sustainability and historic preservation speaks to the soul of the Rev. Leon H. Sullivan Community Impact Center. We are not only preserving a piece of our history but doing so in a way that considers the future of our planet," said Rev. Michael Major, Sr., co-project leader, founder, and board president of Called to Serve. The Rev. Leon H. Sullivan Community Impact Center, named after the notable civil rights leader, will continue his legacy of advocacy for human rights and economic justice. Its various initiatives, from youth career programs to health services, will significantly impact the North Philadelphia community. The project is on track to begin construction later this year with the ongoing support of donor partners and community stakeholders.  We are pleased to share a recap of an inspiring event we recently hosted – the 'Digital Equity Community Conversation'. Together with State Senator Sharif Street, Councilwoman Cindy Bass, representatives from the PA Broadband Development Authority, and the City of Philadelphia Digital Literacy Alliance (DLA), we facilitated a vibrant discussion on the future of digital equity in our communities. A core part of our mission at Called to Serve is to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty, primarily in the Nicetown-Tioga neighborhood of North Philadelphia. Digital equity - access to affordable, high-speed internet - is a crucial part of this mission, as it opens doors to education, employment, and community connection. This Community Conversation was part of a larger initiative led by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, gathering diverse voices from across the state to address the digital divide. The insights we gathered will directly influence action plans for improving broadband services in our underserved communities and equip everyone with the digital skills needed to succeed in today's interconnected world. This mission aligns perfectly with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has set aside a whopping $65 billion for investments into broadband. With a guaranteed minimum of $100 million coming to Pennsylvania, we have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in closing the digital gap. Our event brought together community members from across Philadelphia, with participants from zip codes 19129, 19140, 19141, 19131, 19132, 19126, 19121, 19139, 19122, 19138, and 19120. We strive to amplify voices that often go unheard in these conversations, believing that their experiences and perspectives are vital in creating an inclusive digital environment.
We want to express our profound thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the Digital Equity Community Conversation. Your input is invaluable and will directly shape our strategies for enhancing broadband access and digital literacy throughout our communities. As we continue to push for the renewal, restoration, and revitalization of underserved neighborhoods in Philadelphia, this community input serves as our compass. Together, we can build a thriving urban ecosystem with intact neighborhoods, flourishing businesses, and competent schools. The digital age should benefit all, and we are excited to play our part in making this vision a reality for the people of Nicetown-Tioga and beyond. Keep your eyes on this space for further updates as we journey towards closing the digital divide! This past month, Called to Serve made great strides in transforming lives right here in the heart of North Philadelphia. We joined hands with the Zion Baptist Church, Broad, Germantown & Erie Commercial Corridor, and Temple Health to offer a series of events aimed at uplifting and empowering the community, focusing on enhancing job readiness and boosting self-confidence. Our event saw an array of offerings including engaging seminars, professional clothing giveaways, and complimentary grooming sessions. "Attendees arrive appearing distraught, but leave looking like confident professionals," shared Amelia Price, the event organizer. Upon entering the welcoming premises of the Zion Baptist Church, attendees were first provided with critical healthcare information. They were then guided to a special area where the charitable Brennon Jones of Haircuts 4 Homeless was ready to provide free haircuts. "A simple haircut can alter one's entire perspective on life," affirmed Jones, highlighting the transformative power of personal grooming. Next, they were introduced to Michael Robinson, the Director for Community Outreach and Hiring from the Lenfest Center for Community Workforce Partnerships. His insightful interviewing advice was essential in preparing our participants for upcoming job opportunities. Susan Akinyi-Okumu, the Associate Vice President for Patient Experience at Temple Health, emphasized our shared mission, "We're here to support them in every possible way they aspire to succeed." After a full day of preparation, attendees were invited to a job fair scheduled for the following Friday. Here, they were given the opportunity to showcase their newly acquired skills in front of potential employers. Temple University graciously played host to over 80 employers at the Aramark STAR Complex, a testament to the community's shared hope for everyone's success. Margot Vargas, one of the attendees, was deeply moved by the experience. Despite her recent struggles, she found new hope through the resources offered at the event. "New clothes, a fresh makeover, and professional interview training reminded me that I am part of a caring community," she expressed.
Margot's words echoed the gratitude we witnessed in many of our participants: "To everyone who made this possible, whether you packed a bag or simply offered a warm greeting, thank you for seeing me for who I truly am." At Called to Serve, we believe in the transformative power of community support. We thank everyone who joined us in this successful venture and we look forward to continuing our efforts in creating a more empowered and thriving community. |
