Local nonprofit hosts upscale entertainment night to give back to urban youth

Philadelphia – It’s a “Talk to Me” night at the Safari Park Treehouse, where kids have the opportunity to talk to trusted adults and mentors. But the nonprofit hosting the event is thinking bigger things, and has invited kids from all over the city.

Ryan Harris, founder of the nonprofit I Plant This Seed, has made giving back to the community, especially the city’s youth, his life’s mission.

For years, Harris has been able to host free events for young people, such as camping and hunger strikes. Now, after he’s been able to raise tens of thousands of dollars in donations, he’s doing something a little different and saying “thank you” to everyone who helped make his dream come true. Of course, all children are also welcome.

“Super, super excited,” Harris said. “I think it’s going to change the way these nonprofits look at funding.”

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On Friday night, Harris and his team planned an upscale evening of entertainment and food to give back to those who donated and invested in young people. It all happens at “Rec Philly”, a creative arts venue in Canterlot.

“We’re just trying to create the worst creative experience possible while doing good things,” Harris said.

Kwadir Scott, also known as Director2, is the creative mind behind the night, which he calls “elegant, dripping, night,” meaning the dress is expected to impress.

“We’re going to have podcast interviews, live art, food by some of the best chefs in town, performers, some paint artists and a special giveaway, special guests. It’s a really great show, creative performance,” Scott said.

Another influential youth organization, Powercircle Mentors, is a partner in Friday’s event, and Eugene “Buddha” Thomas says it’s events like this that keep kids off the streets, giving them a chance to have fun and meet new people in a safe environment .

“We’ve been doing different trips, even taking them to 76ers games, taking them to different places just to get out of the neighborhood on this day, because if they’re stuck in a corner and we’re not running a program, Anything can happen in the blink of an eye,” Thomas said.

To purchase tickets for Friday’s event, click here. To learn more about Powercircle Mentors and As I Plant This Seed visit their website powercirclementors.com and asiplantthisisseed.com.