Held at Dorrance Hamilton Hall at the University of the Arts, the event attracted area young professionals who came both to network and to hear about the volunteer opportunities offered by Project H.O.M.E.
With a theme of "our city, our home," the event emphasized the belief young Philadelphians have a social responsibility to get involved in their communities' volunteer efforts and help make the city a home for everyone.
"At Project H.O.M.E., we are aware that Philadelphia is filled with young, dynamic people who greatly desire to help in the fight against homelessness, but just don't know where to start or how to get involved," said Amanda S. Aronoff, Esq., Project H.O.M.E.'s director of development and public relations. "Through our Young Friends Event, we hope to educate young Philadelphians about how to make the phrase, 'our city, our home,' a reality for everyone."
All proceeds from the auction will benefit Project H.O.M.E., and a portion will go toward their work helping children in the community break the cycle of homelessness and poverty.
"We are committed to working toward a national goal of expanding the number of Americans who volunteer from 65.4 million to 75 million . . . by 2010," said Sister Mary Scullion, executive director of Project H.O.M.E. "The Young Friends Event is a great way to encourage young professionals to enact positive change in the community."
Since 1989, Project H.O.M.E. has helped more than 7,000 people break the cycle of homelessness and poverty through street outreach, supportive housing and comprehensive services that focus on health care, education and employment. They are also actively involved with the renovation of vacant or deteriorated houses which are then sold to first-time homebuyers.
For more information on Project H.O.M.E., visit www.projecthome.org.