Just around the corner from our main office in Society Hill is St. Peter’s Church.

The Church has been a long-time supporter and friend to ECS. Always eager to lend a hand, St. Peter’s and its parishioners promote our cause and regularly participate in our seasonal drives like Spring Cleaning and Fill the Bus. Several past and present board members and staff are also church members, including former executive director John Midwood.

Three times a year, St. Peter’s even organizes a benefit concert that brings the community together and spotlights a local mission.

Last week, they hosted their summertime Concert in the Churchyard that welcomed parishioners and friends from around the city to join in on the free—and charitable—action. There, attendees were invited to make an at-will donation to benefit ECS’ afterschool and summer camp program, Out of School Time (OST).

Families flocked to the outside space and posted-up picnic-style to enjoy their neighbors’ company. Farm-to-table fare from the food truck masters Farm Truck was served and the sweet, jazzy sounds of the Phillip Bennett Band were played throughout the churchyard. (Recognize the name? It’s led by The Rev. Phillip Bennett, associate priest of the Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral!)

Christian Holland, senior director of OST, and Melvina Banti, assistant director, were also in attendance to represent the youth and, together, spoke on behalf of the program describing who and what these generous gifts support.

Out of School Time offers a safe and nurturing environment for elementary and middle school students—where each child is empowered to be their best. As a top provider in the city, the program benefits not only the students, but their families, too. At its core, it’s about building community.

For the gifts collected in the churchyard last week—and every other moment of generosity through the years— there is much to say about how proud we are to have St. Peter’s Church, our neighbors, as a part of our community. Our sincerest gratitude goes out to them for their support.

Photo courtesy: St. Peter’s Church, Philadelphia