Thanks to funding through the William Penn Foundation and a partnership with the Appalachian Mountain Club, we are excited to offer these exciting opportunities for Philadelphia park friends groups and stewardship organizations!
These sessions are perfect for volunteers & leaders within local park groups looking to increase their skills. They are free to attend, but registration is required so that we know how many people to plan for. Snacks and water will be provided.
2026 Training Sessions
GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP
Thursday, August 20 from 6:00pm-8:00pm
Gustine Recreation Center (4868 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19129)
This indoor workshop is designed for beginners to grant writing, but is also beneficial to those familiar with the process. Learn about different types of grants, tips & best practices, and gain hands on experience with turning your organization’s story, challenges, and statistics into a compelling grant application. This session will be led by Pauline Berkowitz, Director of Capital Projects for Friends of the Wissahickon.
REGISTER TO ATTEND HERE
TO CUT OR NOT TO CUT: PRACTICAL PLANT ID
Saturday, August 29 from 1:00-3:00
Meeting at Houston Playground (900 Grakyn Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19128)
This outdoor session will provide hands-on experience with tools and pruning techniques, as well as practical identification of common plant species found across Philadelphia. This session will be led by Varian Bosch, Field Operations Manager for Friends of the Wissahickon and John Jensen, Water Projects Technician for the Philadelphia Water Department.
REGISTER TO ATTEND HERE
PLANTING FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS
Saturday, September 26 from 1:00-3:00
Location TBD
This outdoor session will provide instruction and hands-on experience on how to plan, prep, plant, and maintain trees and shrubs to ensure a successful habitat restoration. This session will be led by Varian Bosch, Field Operations Manager for Friends of the Wissahickon.
REGISTER TO ATTEND HERE
The Appalachian Mountain Club is also running a series of trail skills workshops throughout Philadelphia. Check out their menu of options here.