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History:

Caring People Alliance was founded as Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia in 1932 by Charles Edwin Fox, District Attorney of Philadelphia, and Samuel S. Fels, a local philanthropist. Their intent was to help youth affected by the Depression find jobs and become involved in social and recreational programs that would improve their lives. City legal and law enforcement leaders were partners when the first Board of Directors shaped its bylaws. In 1937, we chartered the first Philadelphia chapter of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Our Board and staff soon realized that supporting at-risk youth also meant supporting their families and communities. This philosophy led to the development of family-focused community centers. The first was in South Philadelphia, followed by Lower North and West Philadelphia. To offer more specialized services, we expanded to other sites, including public schools, where we continue to meet specific needs.

While Mr. Fels provided our early funding, Caring People Alliance has developed long-term funding relationships with private organizations and city, state and federal agencies. Since 1940, the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania has been one of our funding partners. Foundations, corporations, individuals and families contribute significantly. All are essential partners in building, strengthening and enhancing our services in Philadelphia.

Today, Caring People Alliance serves over 30,000 Philadelphia individuals and families each year. Reaching out to families in specific inner-city neighborhoods to strengthen the overall community continues to be at the heart of our mission.