Pew fosters a healthy and vibrant public life in the Philadelphia region in many ways. We partner with local institutions and individuals to encourage thriving arts and cultural communities; support the health and welfare of the region’s neediest residents; and, through civic initiatives, strengthen Philadelphia’s appeal to visitors and residents alike. Pew also provides research and analysis on important issues facing the city and its surrounding area. 

In the cultural arena, Pew supports the performing and visual arts, museums and libraries, historic buildings and sites, and parks and gardens.

Pew’s civic projects help to revive important public spaces such as Independence Mall, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Fairmount Water Works, as well as some of the region’s other historic treasures. Also, we have helped to build Philadelphia’s tourist economy by leading the planning and fundraising for the Independence Visitor Center and the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation.

Pew’s local policy research shines a light on some of the city’s challenges and identifies ways to address these issues.

Pew also helps to ensure that the most vulnerable citizens in Philadelphia and its neighboring counties receive much-needed assistance. The Pew Fund for Health and Human Services in Philadelphia supports a range of programs aimed at supporting the elderly, children and youth, and at-risk adults.