HopePHL
Joe Willard is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in policy and advocacy focused on homelessness and workforce development. Currently serving as Vice President for Policy at HopePHL since 2007, Joe assists the Policy Advisory Council and collaborates with various stakeholders to address challenges faced by families and children experiencing homelessness. Prior to this role, Joe managed public policy initiatives for the Community Impact Department at United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania from 2003 to 2007. Joe's earlier career includes serving as Associate Director of Workforce Development at The Reinvestment Fund, where initiatives included the Jobs Policy Network and support for TANF recipients' access to education, and as a Statewide Organizer at the Philadelphia Unemployment Project advocating for public service employment programs. Joe holds a Master's degree in Urban Affairs from Hunter College and a Bachelor's degree in Community Development from Penn State University.
HopePHL
HopePHL (pronounced Hopeful) is a newly formed social service organization for families, youth, and young children, experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Philadelphia. HopePHL was formed from two separate, but well known, social service organizations, People’s Emergency Center (PEC), and Youth Service, Inc (YSI), with 150 years of combined service experience. We provide a suite of programs, including: housing, advocacy and trauma-responsive social services that promote equity, resilience, autonomy and well-being, so people who need our services can achieve their goals, whether it’s a new home, a first job, enrolling in school, finding childcare, etc. Learn More at https://bit.ly/HopePHLInfo