This report describes a study of a network that supported community-based informal learning experiences for families with young children in Philadelphia. The network has included 11 different partnerships consisting of informal learning organizations and community-based organizations. The partnerships developed programming focused on a variety of topics, that was delivered in a range of different community-based settings in order to specifically support literacy development. Findings suggest that the network had a positive impact on participating families. Children enjoyed the hands-on programming, practiced literacy skills, and explored new informal learning experiences in locations around the city. Caregivers found programming beneficial for their children, learned about family literacy practices, and valued programs as shared and special family experiences. Families who participated in programming over time developed positive relationships with educators from informal learning organizations. The findings also explored the challenges and benefits of partnerships engaged in joint work as part of a network and learning community.
Launched in 2017, the William Penn Foundation’s Informal Learning Initiative (ILI) supports literacy-rich learning experiences for low-income families in Philadelphia. ILI was intended to bring informal learning and community-based organizations together in a collective effort to provide community-centered, family-friendly programming. ILI was designed to be well-situated with respect to two of the main goals of Philadelphia’s Read by 4th campaign: “helping families to engage in literacy-building activities with their children and making sure that every community in Philadelphia has access to literacy-rich programming.”
