Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Getting ready to celebrate America's 250th Birthday & other upcoming events

Getting ready to celebrate America's 250th Birthday & other upcoming events

PA Representative Darisha Parker banner image
 

 

The Power of Community

500 Block of W. Abbottsford displayed the POWER OF COMMUNITY – I was honored to join their Block part celebration where they showed off team effort and dedication to win the title of “Super Clean Block” contest.


Commissioner Shipman, Deputy Commissioner Warren, Kevin Fisher and Dawn Woods (PMBC, Sanitation and Judges for best block) were present for this great occasion!!!

 

St. John's Community Day

 

Children & Youth Health Fair

I hosted a Children & Youth Health fair with colleagues from the city and state levels. Huge THANK YOU to State Rep. Amen Brown for being my awesome co-host!

 We had a great turnout – the kids enjoyed a Moon bounce, music, got health screenings and parents were able to obtain fresh produce, plus state government resources that will help their families thrive.

Thanks to Absalom Jones Foundation, Most worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lounge of PA & Prince Hall Masonic Family for hosting and supporting our city!

 

 

Hand2Paw fosters compassion for teens and animals

I was happy to visit Hand2Paw and meet with Executive Director Lateefah Strickland. Sherita Gleen, 49th Ward Leader joined us. Thank you for having us, I look forward to working together!

 

Addressing Behavioral Health & Criminal Justice

I joined colleagues in attending the Fall Regional Summit at the Administrative Office of PA Courts – the topic was Behavioral Health and Justice. We need to ensure that people receive help for mental health instead of penal penalties.

 

Connecting with other state legislators 
Thank you, State Sen. James Sanders Jr.

The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus proudly welcomed New York State Senator James Sanders Jr. to speak with us about the priorities and actions of state legislators both in NY and the nation. Sen. Sanders is Vice President of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.

It was a pleasure to discuss ideas and talk about the important role state legislators play in his state.

 

 

America250PA "Countdown to 250" Mobile Experiential Unit

America250PA’s Mobile Unit will be on the move bringing celebrations for America’s 250th birthday.

From immersive games like Pennsylvania Pursuit and Keystone Quest, to meaningful storytelling with The Commonwealth Chronicles, and so much more, this experience will connect Pennsylvanians of every age to our shared past, present and future.

The mobile unit will be at CollegeFest 2025 – Philadelphia, taking place at Moore College of Art & Design, located at 1916 Race St., Philadelphia, PA 19103(at the corner of 20th and Race) on Saturday, September 20 from 10 am to 3 pm.

Want to be a part of history? Click here to sign up to volunteer.

 

America250PA Semi quincentennial Scholarship Program

America250PA will be awarding $250,000 in scholarships to deserving Pennsylvania students attending Pennsylvania colleges and universities in the 2026/2027 academic school year.  

Who
Pennsylvania High School Seniors who are planning to attend an accredited Pennsylvania college or university for the 2026/2027 academic school year 
 

What
Twenty-five $10,000 Scholarships will be awarded throughout America250PA’s six designated regions. 
 

Where
Any Pennsylvania College or University
 

When
Scholarships will be awarded in April 2026 for the 2026/2027 academic year. 

 

Click here more for information and to apply.

 

 

Save the Date

 

 

Apply for state grant funding

Apply today for funding from state grant programs that help provide critical funding throughout our city!

Visit my website to see a list of grant programs currently accepting applications.

Don’t forget to contact my office if you have any questions about the grant application process.

My team and I are happy to help you and can provide a letter of support.

 

 

Upcoming changes to Pennie

Pennie, authorized by the Federal Government as the state’s health insurance marketplace, is expecting changes for enrollees in 2026 and remains committed to helping Pennsylvanians find affordable, high-quality health coverage, although with these Federal changes it will become more difficult. Click here to learn more

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department is also hosting free, in-person informational sessions statewide to answer questions and help you prepare for Open Enrollment.

 

 

Important election info

Remember, elections happen more than just every four years! See below for important dates regarding this upcoming November election:

  • Monday, October 20- Last day to register to vote.
  • Tuesday, October 28- Last day to apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot.
  • Tuesday, November 4 - Election Day: Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Voters must be in line by 8 p.m. to cast their ballot.
  • 8 p.m. on November 4 - Deadline for mail-in and absentee ballots to be received.

To register to vote or request a mail-in or absentee ballot, visit https://vote.phila.gov/

 

 

If you need assistance with any state government-related program, please don't hesitate to contact my office.

 

Pennsylvania State Capitol

116 A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120-2198

(717) 787-7727

District Office

1335 West Tabor Road, Suite 109
Philadelphia, PA 19141
(215) 849-6426

 

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