By Philip Fitzgerald, Chief Impact Officer, Philadelphia Foundation

A year ago, I stepped into a newly created role at Philadelphia Foundation, Chief Impact Officer. Motivated by the chance to blaze a new trail, I drew on what I knew from my previous time here: a deep knowledge of the organization, its mission, and the communities we serve. I quickly reconnected with stakeholders, leaned into our new strategy, and began shaping what this role could and should be. I am buoyed by the momentum we are building alongside committed partners, donors, and community organizations. Over the past 12 months, I have had the great privilege to channel that energy into new initiatives and partnerships and am proud of what we have accomplished so far and energized for the future.

Economic Mobility: The Defining Challenge of Our Time

The often-cited research by Professor Raj Chetty and his colleagues at Opportunity Insights, which ranked Philadelphia 50th out of 50 major metros for economic mobility, is sobering, but it is also a call to action. At Philadelphia Foundation, economic mobility means access to jobs with family-sustaining wages, benefits, and the prospect of advancement; removing barriers that limit household stability; and education that sets people up to succeed. These are the interconnected drivers of opportunity that allow individuals and families to build secure, self-determined lives. Dr. Chetty’s research also noted that social capital plays a key role in determining future success.

When I look back at my own career, I can identify moments that shaped my trajectory in ways I did not fully appreciate at the time. For example, a scholarship recommendation that opened new doors, an internship that led to my first paid job in the nonprofit sector, and leaders who extended trust and created space for me to grow. There were people behind each of those moments, investing in my potential before I had fully recognized it myself.

This is what social capital looks like in practice, and for many young people in Philadelphia, access to these kinds of networks is uneven at best. Economic mobility is not only about skills and credentials but also about having people in your corner who can help you navigate systems, open doors, and imagine possibilities beyond your immediate circumstances. I have been intentional about mentoring emerging leaders, particularly those from underrepresented communities, as part of my own commitment to this work. Philanthropy needs those voices and bringing them into the field makes our sector more effective.

For years, Philadelphia Foundation has worked with communities to address gaps that block opportunity. What is different now is the focus we are bringing to this agenda. Philadelphia Foundation is committed to being explicit about what we are trying to achieve, deliberate about how we invest, and accountable to the communities most affected by these disparities.

It Takes All of Us

Addressing economic mobility at the scale Philadelphia requires is not something any single sector can accomplish alone. Government and private funders perform a distinct and necessary role, and the greatest opportunities for impact emerge when everyone is rowing in the same direction. Private enterprise plays a pivotal role in this effort. Businesses rooted in this region have a direct stake in a strong, prepared workforce, and a strong workforce contributes to a stronger regional economy. Nonprofits remain an integral part of the equation as well, delivering critical services and driving impact daily in neighborhoods across the region.

Sustained, systemic change requires cross-sector collaboration, and Philadelphia Foundation is committed to being a trusted convener and catalyst in that process. The donors, community organizations, and civic leaders, who remain deeply connected to Philadelphia, are genuinely motivated to address its challenges and are excited by its future. That sentiment is the foundation upon which our community is built, and I am grateful to be doing this work alongside so many who share it.

Looking Ahead

As I step into my second year, Philadelphia Foundation is advancing new efforts to expand access to high-quality job training and workforce readiness initiatives across the region, opening doors to opportunity and economic mobility for more people and families. Through our partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and the relationships our leadership has cultivated across the business community, we are engaging more employers as active, invested partners in our economic mobility agenda. These thoughtfully designed investments will deliver tangible results in the near-term while laying the foundation for lasting impact. At the same time, Philadelphia Foundation remains a trusted, flexible resource for donors and community partners, meeting critical needs while keeping our focus on lasting change—the core work of a community foundation.

After nearly two decades practicing philanthropy, what sustains me are truths I have seen time and again: when we invite people to step forward, they do. When we call on Philadelphians to meet the moment with purpose and generosity, they answer. And when our community is asked to come together, it always shows up. I look forward to continuing this work together and to the progress ahead.