From debate club to dumpling making, students in Out-of-School Time (OST) programs across Philadelphia are building skills, exploring new interests, and connecting with their communities in meaningful ways.
At Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation (PCDC), these opportunities come to life every day. Since joining the PHMC-OST Network in 2019, PCDC has expanded its high school program from 30 to 80 slots, significantly increasing access for youth at the Crane Community Center.
Founded in 1966, PCDC has long served as a cornerstone of Chinatown, working to preserve and strengthen the community. Today, that mission continues through its OST program, where students are encouraged to explore their interests and plan for their futures.
Led by Youth Operations Manager, Rosaline Yang, and Youth Program Coordinator, Kyle Wang, the program is grounded in connection, creativity, and opportunity.
“I understand the struggles our youth face, and through my own experiences, I’m able to guide them toward resources that support their growth,” said Kyle.
“I truly believe in the work we do through our after-school program. The support and opportunities we provide at PCDC make a meaningful difference,” added Rosaline.
Students participate in a wide range of hands-on activities that keep them engaged and excited to learn. In a recent Debate Club, students tackled the question: Is space exploration worth the cost when there are problems on Earth? Through research, structured arguments, and respectful debate, they strengthened their critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking skills.
Creativity and culture are also central to the program. In a social-emotional learning workshop, students transformed leftover red envelopes into lanterns for Lunar New Year, blending tradition, sustainability, and self-expression.
Students also took part in a dumpling-making workshop led by Chef Michael Chow of Sang Kee Peking Duck House, where they learned traditional techniques, worked together, and shared a meal, building both skills and a sense of community.
Career exploration is another key focus. During a healthcare panel led by Jefferson University students, participants learned about a range of careers and practiced taking blood pressure during a hands-on activity, helping make future pathways feel more tangible and accessible.
Together, these experiences support the whole student, academically, socially, and culturally, while helping young people build confidence, skills, and a strong sense of identity.
