Resolution 260929

Title Congratulating JEVS Human Services on their 85th Anniversary and commending the organization for its longstanding commitment to expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and helping Philadelphians pursue independence and economic security. Body WHEREAS, JEVS was founded in Philadelphia in 1941 as an organization to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. JEVS has since evolved into one of the region’s leading nonprofit human services organizations, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves; and WHEREAS, Throughout its 85-year history, JEVS has remained committed to the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, providing critical services in workforce development, career and technical education, behavioral health, community living and home supports, and other programs that strengthen communities; and WHEREAS, With support from the Mayor and City Council, JEVS provided 8,000 students with paid learning experiences through Career Connected Learning Philadelphia (C2L-PHL) in 2026, their program connecting young people with paid work experiences and career learning. The program is so successful they have already added 1,000 additional spaces for summer 2027; and WHEREAS, In February 2026 JEVS opened a new Behavioral Health Hub in Northeast Philadelphia to combine clinical care, psychiatric rehabilitation, and peer support into one location; and WHEREAS, JEVS advances independent living for people with intellectual disabilities through its Community Homes program, which operates 26 homes in Philadelphia and Montgomery Counties. These homes provide round-the-clock support while helping residents pursue personal goals, maintain relationships, access community activities, and live with dignity; and WHEREAS, Through Orleans Technical College, JEVS prepares students for in-demand careers ranging from building trades to healthcare. In 2025, the college celebrated the graduation of its first practical nursing class, marking an important milestone in expanding pathways into the healthcare workforce; and WHEREAS, Under the leadership of President and CEO Cynthia Figueroa and its dedicated staff, JEVS carries forward its 85-year tradition of service while looking toward the future and the next generation of Philadelphians who will benefit from its work; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby congratulates JEVS Human Services on its 85th Anniversary and commends the organization for its longstanding commitment to expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and helping Philadelphians pursue independence and economic security. FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to President and CEO Cynthia Figueroa as representation of the appreciation of this legislative body. End