More than 450 regional thought leaders, changemakers, business leaders, nonprofit professionals, and innovators gathered at The Bellevue Hotel on May 20 for the fifth annual OpportUNITY Summit hosted by United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.
This year’s theme, “United in Purpose: Renewing the Promise of America,” explored how communities can work together to expand economic mobility, advance equity, and break down systemic barriers that prevent individuals and families from reaching their full potential.
“Creating lasting change requires bold ideas and collective commitment,” said Bill Golderer, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. “As Philadelphia marks the nation’s 250th anniversary, this is a defining moment to reflect on our shared values and to take action to ensure the promise of opportunity is real and accessible for every person in our region.”
Held during the nation’s Semiquincentennial year, the summit connected discussions about opportunity and prosperity to Philadelphia’s unique role in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
Guests also had the opportunity to continue the conversation beyond the event by taking home books from featured speakers, including Andre M. Perry’s acclaimed work, Black Power Scorecard: Measuring the Racial Gap and What We Can Do to Close It and Jill Lepore‘s These Truths
The program featured a series of engaging keynote presentations and panel discussions focused on workforce development, racial equity, community-driven solutions, and the power of cross-sector collaboration. Featured speakers included civil rights attorney and former NAACP Legal Defense Fund President Sherrilyn Ifill, economist Cullum Clark, community development expert Andre M. Perry, and Yale University psychology professor Dr. Laurie Santos.
Adding a creative element to the event, United Way commissioned InLiquid artist Marta Sanchez to create a live painting throughout the summit. The artwork evolved in real time as conversations unfolded, serving as a visual representation of United Way’s mission and the themes of the OpportUNITY Summit.
As Philadelphia prepares to welcome the world during America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, the OpportUNITY Summit served as a powerful reminder that creating opportunity for all requires innovation, partnership, and a shared commitment to building stronger communities.
The day sparked powerful conversations and equipped attendees with renewed energy to engage in poverty-fighting work across our region. Thanks United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.
