Free six-part series empowers young women with self-defense, safety, communication, and community-building skills
PHILADELPHIA— Philadelphia Parks & Recreation is proud to announce the launch of the Safe-Her Self-Defense Program, a free six-part pilot series designed to equip young women ages 12–24 with tools, awareness, and confidence to navigate real-world safety challenges. The initiative advances the City of Philadelphia’s broader violence prevention and youth safety priorities under Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, reinforcing a citywide commitment to strengthening neighborhoods and expanding community-based programming.
The Safe-Her pilot is led by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s Programs Division in partnership with Jobologi and in collaboration with local self-defense instructors and women-led community organizations that support youth safety and empowerment.
The first Safe-Her session begins Thursday, July 9, at 1:30 p.m. at Awbury Recreation Center. The free six-part program runs through Monday, August 17, at four Philadelphia Parks & Recreation locations throughout the city. This trauma-informed initiative focuses on physical safety and mental well-being. Participants will learn de-escalation strategies, situational awareness and self-advocacy. They will also build confidence through introductory self-defense techniques, communication skills, digital literacy and community-building activities.
“Philadelphia Parks & Recreation is often on the front lines of community engagement and youth safety,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “As we continue to see ongoing concerns around domestic violence and safety risks impacting young women, we were led to strengthen programming that provides practical tools, trusted spaces, and supportive environments where participants can learn how to protect themselves and build confidence.”
The program will be offered at the following Philadelphia Parks & Recreation locations:
Awbury Recreation Center
6101 Ardleigh Street, Philadelphia, PA 19138
Thursdays, July 9–August 13, 2026 | 1:30–2:30 p.m.
AwburyRecCenter@phila.gov
Winchester Playground
2326 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132
Thursdays, July 9–August 13, 2026| 4–8 p.m.
WinchesterPlayground@phila.gov
12th & Cambria Playground
2900–30 N. 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19133
Mondays, July 13–August 17, 2026 | 9:30–11 a.m.
12thandCambriaPlayground@phila.gov
Christy Recreation Center
728 S. 55th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Mondays, July 13–August 17, 2026 | 1–3 p.m.
ChristyRecCenter@phila.gov
For more information about sessions at the locations listed above, contact the recreation center using the email address provided. For future updates, visit Phila.gov/ppr.