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Fairmount Park Conservancy CEO Tony Sorrentino reflects on his first year leading the organization and shares fall programs that bring recreation, wellness and community connection to Philadelphia’s parks. We also discuss Play for Parks, a free celebration on Friday, October 16, from 7–9 p.m. at the John Welsh Memorial Fountain in West Fairmount Park. Enjoy Chill Moody’s Klubbhouse, special guests, local vendors and a fireworks finale at 8:50 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Find the fall calendar at myphillypark.org. Follow @myphillypark on Instagram and Fairmount Park Conservancy on Facebook and LinkedIn.   How can families facing a medical crisis manage the overwhelming out-of-pocket costs that insurance doesn’t cover? Kelly L. Green, Executive Director of Help Hope Live, joins us to discuss how the national nonprofit helps families fundraise for medical expenses while providing personalized support and resources.   We also preview Help Hope Live’s 14th Annual Live It Up! Gala, Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 6–9 p.m. at The Drexelbrook, 4700 Drexelbrook Drive in Drexel Hill, PA. The evening features dinner, an open bar, silent auction and the Help Hope Live Awards, while raising funds to support the organization’s mission. Web: HelpHopeLive.org Socials: Facebook, Instagram & X @HelpHopeLiveOrg · LinkedIn Help Hope Live · TikTok & YouTube @HelpHopeLive.   Finally we speak to  Peggy Dolan, Founder of the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund, and Danielle Griffith, Executive Director, as the organization celebrates 50 years of helping families caring for children with serious illnesses and disabilities. Since its founding, the Fund has helped more than 50,000 families and paid more than $10 million in essential bills. The conversation also explores new initiatives including ExchangeABLE, which redistributes adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, and Unity Sports, an inclusive soccer program pairing children with disabilities with student-athlete buddies. The Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund will mark its milestone anniversary with Foodies & Philanthropy, Thursday, October 9, 2026, at Lilah in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia. Proceeds benefit families served by the Fund.    https://dolanfund.org/

Fairmount Park Conservancy CEO Tony Sorrentino reflects on his first year leading the organization and shares fall programs that bring recreation, wellness and community connection to Philadelphia’s parks. We also discuss Play for Parks, a free celebration on Friday, October 16, from 7–9 p.m. at the John Welsh Memorial Fountain in West Fairmount Park. Enjoy Chill Moody’s Klubbhouse, special guests, local vendors and a fireworks finale at 8:50 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Find the fall calendar at myphillypark.org. Follow @myphillypark on Instagram and Fairmount Park Conservancy on Facebook and LinkedIn. My iHeartMedia colleague - WDAS FM’s Frankie Darcell shares her breast cancer journey, why she founded Sista Strut, and her message to Black women about mammograms and protecting their breast health. Find a location or schedule a screening with iHeartMedia partner Solis Mammography at SolisMammo.com, or call 866-717-2551. If you have a breast symptom, call to ask about a diagnostic appointment.   We explore the impact of Black teachers, the power of Philadelphia’s parks to connect communities, and a personal call to prioritize breast health. I talk with Sharif El-Mekki, founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development, about why Black teachers matter and how to build the next generation of educators. We preview the 9th Annual Black Men in Education Convening, November 13–15, 2026, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market Street. This year’s theme is “Rooted in History: Constructing the Next 100 Years of Education.” Information and registration: thecenterblacked.org. Follow Instagram @centerblacked and Facebook Center for Black Educator Development. #BMEC2026

On VLS Journeys, we explore Black creativity through comic books and contemporary dance.I talk with Sean Quimby, Associate Vice Provost and Director of Penn’s Kislak Center, about The Black Hero’s Journey, an exhibition tracing the evolution of Black comic book characters and creators—from harmful stereotypes to groundbreaking superheroes—and their connections to Philadelphia.Exhibition: October 15, 2026–May 13, 2027, at the Goldstein Gallery, sixth floor of the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, 3420 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. Admission is free. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, excluding holidays and library closures. Bring a valid government- or school-issued photo ID with an expiration date. Opening festivities include a conversation with Christian Cooper on October 15, 6–8 p.m., and a Family and Community Day on October 31, noon–3 p.m.Web: library.upenn.edu/exhibits/black-heros-journey Socials: Instagram @upennlib · Facebook Penn Libraries · LinkedIn Penn Libraries. For her feature "What is Philadelphia Reading" Vanesse speaks to Bernard H. Gaddis, founder and artistic director of Contemporary West Dance Theatre, now based in Philadelphia and celebrating its 19th year. A Philadelphia native whose professional career began with PHILADANCO, Gaddis shares his journey in dance, the company’s move from Nevada, and his dedication to developing dancers through decades of teaching ballet and the Horton modern technique nationally and internationally.

A mammogram can find breast cancer before symptoms appear but making that appointment can be easy to put off. WDAS FM’s Frankie Darcell knows how personal this issue is. She joins me to share her breast cancer journey, why she founded Sista Strut, and her message to Black women about protecting their breast health. For listeners: Find a location or schedule a screening mammogram at iheart media partner  SolisMammo.com, or call 866-717-2551. Anyone with a breast symptom should call to ask about a diagnostic appointment rather than book a routine screening online.

This week, we spotlight Philadelphia organizations and changemakers using the arts, community investment and celebration to make a difference. Kofi Asanté, Executive Producer of No Longer Bound – The Musical, shares how music, dance and storytelling bring the African American journey from enslavement to freedom to the stage. The production comes to the Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Center, October 11 at 4 p.m. Web: nolongerboundthemusical.com   Then, Nikki Bagby of North10 Philadelphia and Jennifer Bilotta of Comcast discuss a partnership with the Philadelphia 76ers bringing expanded digital access, technology, workforce development and community resources to North Philadelphia. Web: www.north10phl.org  www.comcast/76erNorth10 Partnership Social: @n10_phl | @Comcast | @Sixers Finally, Mary Evelyn Torres, Executive Director of Action Wellness, previews Black-Tie GayBINGO!, Saturday, October 3 at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. The signature fundraiser supports Action Wellness programs serving people living with or at risk for HIV. Web/Tickets: www.actionwellness.org Social: @ActionWellnessPHL

Workers’ compensation with David Stern What happens to your benefits after a workplace injury—and what does it mean when a doctor says you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement? David Stern, founding partner of Stern & Cohen, joins us to discuss Pennsylvania workers’ compensation, common claim mistakes, returning to work, and what to do if benefits are reduced or stopped. Stern & Cohen was named a 2025 Gold Winner in The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Philly Favorites awards. Web and socials: sterncohenlaw.com · Stern & Cohen on LinkedIn · Facebook: Stern & Cohen. Consultation inquiries can be made through the firm’s website.   Carolyn Searles and the 2026 Cancer Progress Report Carolyn Searles learned she carried an inherited BRCA1 mutation, then faced a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer while pregnant. Featured in the American Association for Cancer Research’s 2026 Cancer Progress Report, she shares how genetic screening and specialized care shaped her decisions—and why continued research matters to families facing cancer. Web and socials: Read Carolyn’s story · 2026 Cancer Progress Report · AACR.org · Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X: @AACR · YouTube: American Association for Cancer Research.

Loraine Ballard Morrill talks with Sharana Worsley about Emerald Renaissance, a juried art exhibition celebrating the Philadelphia Chapter of The Links, Incorporated’s 80th anniversary and honoring co-founder Margaret Rosell Hawkins. Hear how the exhibition connects Black women’s artistic legacy with the chapter’s tradition of service. The anniversary celebration takes place Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Founder’s Hall at Girard College, 2101 S. College Avenue, Philadelphia. For event details and tickets, visit thephiladelphialinksinc.org. Follow the chapter on Facebook or find its Instagram link on the chapter website.

In this episode of What’s Going On, Loraine Ballard Morrill highlights resources, events and people strengthening Philadelphia communities. David S. Thomas, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC), discusses affordable housing, homeownership and programs helping Philadelphians buy, repair and remain in their homes. He also shares information about the city’s H.O.M.E. Initiative, Turn the Key homeownership program and the PHDC Annual Housing Fair, featuring more than 100 housing organizations and experts. PHDC Annual Housing Fair — Presented by Independence Blue Cross Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Temple University Aramark STAR Complex, 1816 N. 15th Street Free admission and registration. Web: PHDC Housing Fair | PHDC Next, Philadelphia celebrates National Coming Out Day with OURfest 2026, a three-day celebration of LGBTQ+ visibility, community and Pride. Tyrell Brown, Founder and Executive Director of Philly Pride 365, talks about the evolution of OURfest, the importance of year-round LGBTQ+ visibility and what to expect from a weekend featuring community events, a parade, festival and resource fair. OURfest 2026 October 9–11, 2026 Parade & Festival: Sunday, October 11 | Philadelphia Gayborhood The Sunday parade, festival and resource fair are free and open to the public. Web: OURfest 2026 |  Social: @PhillyPride365 Finally, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the I Am Hispanic Philadelphia series turns its attention to cuisine. Acclaimed Philadelphia restaurateur, author and agave advocate David Suro-Piñera, founder of Tequilas Restaurant and co-author of the James Beard Award-winning Agave Spirits: The Past, Present, and Future of Mezcals, discusses his culinary journey, the cultural importance of agave spirits and efforts to protect traditional producers and sustainable production. I Am Hispanic Philadelphia — Cuisine: David Suro-Piñera Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 6 p.m. Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine Street, Fourth Floor, Rooms 405/406 Free admission; conversation followed by a book signing. Web: Free Library Event | Free Registration | Tequilas Casa Mexicana | Tequila Interchange Project Social: Instagram @tequilasphilly

This episode of Insight connects listeners with important Philadelphia resources focused on housing, mental health and suicide prevention, and domestic violence support. David S. Thomas, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC), discusses affordable housing, homeownership and programs that help residents repair and remain in their homes. He also previews the PHDC Annual Housing Fair, Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at Temple University’s Aramark STAR Complex, featuring more than 100 housing organizations and experts. Admission is free. Web: PHDC Annual Housing Fair | PHDC Minister Ericka Arthur, founder of Inspiration With E, discusses faith-based mental health advocacy, suicide prevention and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in communities of color and faith. She also previews A Moment of Hope, a free community event Saturday, September 26, from 3–5 p.m. at Christ Community Church of Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Out of the Darkness Walk, October 10 at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Web/Social: Inspiration With E | Instagram & Facebook: @InspirationWithE | AFSP.org For crisis support, call or text 988. Finally, Joanna Otero-Cruz, President and Executive Director of Women Against Abuse, discusses the organization’s 50 years of supporting survivors, warning signs of relationship abuse and resources available to those who need help. She also previews the 19th Annual iPledge Community Rally and Resource Fair, Wednesday, September 30 at noon in the courtyard of Philadelphia City Hall. Web/Social: Women Against Abuse | Instagram: @womenagainstabuse | Facebook and LinkedIn: Women Against Abuse Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-866-723-3014, available 24/7.

The relationship between a mother and child can profoundly shape identity, faith and emotional well-being—but what happens when that relationship leaves behind pain that never fully heals? In this episode, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Dr. Sarita Lyons, psychotherapist, speaker, ministry leader and author of Honor Thy Mother: How to Grieve, Heal, and Make Peace With Your Mother Wounds. Dr. Lyons explains how unresolved maternal wounds can affect mental health and relationships, how to grieve what we did not receive, and how Christian faith can support healing. She also discusses setting healthy boundaries and finding a path toward forgiveness or reconciliation when it is safe and appropriate. Dr. Lyons will bring these conversations to Philadelphia during the two-day Honor Thy Mother Conference, taking place October 2–3, 2026. Open to women and men, the conference will feature speakers, worship and experiences designed to encourage emotional and spiritual healing. Conference information and tickets: SaritaLyons.com/HonorThyMotherConference Follow on Instagram: Dr. Sarita Lyons: @DrSaritaLyonsHonor Thy Mother Conference: @HonorThyMotherConference

In this episode of What’s Going On, Loraine Ballard Morrill examines three urgent issues affecting individuals and families across our region. First, Luis Del Orbe, Executive Director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, explains why problem gambling is a public health issue—not a moral failing. He discusses the hidden emotional, financial and family consequences of gambling addiction, warning signs, vulnerable populations and responsible-gambling strategies. He also previews the 2026 Annual Conference on Disordered Gambling, Friday, September 18, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The College of New Jersey’s Brower Student Center in Ewing. Learn more at 800Gambler.org. For confidential help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Follow @ccgofnj on X and @800gambler on Instagram, Facebook, Threads and TikTok.   Next, Joanna Otero-Cruz, President and Executive Director of Women Against Abuse, reflects on the organization’s 50 years of providing safety, support and hope to survivors. She discusses the troubling rise in domestic violence-related homicides, warning signs of relationship abuse and ways the community can help prevent violence. She also previews the 19th annual iPledge Community Rally and Resource Fair, Wednesday, September 30, at noon in the courtyard of Philadelphia City Hall. Visit WomenAgainstAbuse.org and follow @womenagainstabuse.org on Instagram, Women Against Abuse on Facebook and LinkedIn. The confidential, 24-hour Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline is 866-723-3014.   Finally, in an encore presentation, Philadelphia City Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad discusses the Philadelphia Sexual Assault Response Center’s transition to the Department of Public Health. She explains how advocacy helped secure stable City funding for PSARC and why continued access to 24/7, trauma-informed medical and forensic care is essential for survivors. Learn more about Councilmember Nina Ahmad and follow @DrNinaAhmad on X and @drninaahmad on Instagram. For PSARC’s 24/7 Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner service, call 215-425-1625. WOAR’s 24/7 crisis hotline is available by calling or texting 215-985-3333; additional resources are available at WOAR.org.

In Pt. 2 of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill highlights three important issues affecting individuals, families and communities. First, Luis Del Orbe, Executive Director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, explains why problem gambling is a public-health issue—not a moral failing—and discusses warning signs, vulnerable populations, responsible-gambling practices and pathways to recovery. He also shares information about the 2026 Annual Conference on Disordered Gambling, taking place Friday, September 18, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The College of New Jersey’s Brower Student Center in Ewing. For conference information or confidential help, visit 800Gambler.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER. Follow @ccgofnj on X and @800gambler on Instagram, Facebook, Threads and TikTok.   Then, Reverend Zemoria Brandon of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America’s Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter discusses Sickle Cell Awareness Month, the importance of knowing your sickle cell trait status and the services available to patients and caregivers. She also previews the 28th Annual Walter E. Brandon Sickle Cell 5K Walk/Run, happening Saturday, September 26, from 7 a.m. to noon at the Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic in Philadelphia. Register or donate at RunSignUp, and learn more at SickleCellDisorder.com or call (215) 471-8686. Follow @scdaa.pdvc on Instagram and @scdaapdvc on Facebook and YouTube.   Finally, Reverend Steven T. Robinson, founder of the Inter-Faith Social Change Movement, and Reverend Wilfredo “Willie” Pedraza, senior pastor of One Cross Church and a gospel recording artist, discuss faith, music and community support in overcoming addiction. They preview Philadelphia’s free Annual Addiction Awareness and Recovery Concert, happening Saturday, September 19, at 2715 East Allegheny Avenue. For tickets and information, call 484-367-5840. Learn more at the Inter-Faith Social Change Movement website and follow One Cross Church on Facebook.

In Part One of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Sharana Worsley, co-chair of Emerald Renaissance, a juried art exhibition celebrating the Philadelphia Chapter of The Links, Incorporated’s 80th anniversary. Worsley discusses the exhibition’s tribute to chapter co-founder, artist and educator Margaret Rosell Hawkins; the enduring influence of Black women in the arts; and how visual art can strengthen communities. She also explains how artists working in painting, photography, mixed media and works on paper can submit their work for consideration. According to the updated call for artists, submissions are due September 15, 2026, jury decisions will be announced October 19 and the exhibition opens November 14. Artists can review the guidelines and apply at ThePhiladelphiaLinksInc.org or email [email protected] with questions.

In this episode of What’s Going On, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Tonya McClary, Executive Director of Philadelphia’s Citizens Police Oversight Commission (CPOC), about strengthening trust, transparency and accountability between law enforcement and the communities they serve. McClary explains how CPOC investigates police misconduct, assists residents with the complaint process and protects their rights. She also discusses the Mere Encounter Project, the “Free to Leave” campaign and community workshops that help Philadelphians understand their rights during police interactions.   Then, as the nation marks 25 years since the September 11 attacks, Loraine speaks with Clifford Chanin, Executive Vice President and Museum Director of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. With more than 100 million Americans now too young to remember that day, Chanin discusses how the Museum preserves the stories of victims, survivors, families and first responders; educates a new generation; acknowledges the continuing health consequences of 9/11; and carries forward its enduring legacy of courage, service and unity. He also previews the special exhibition, In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11-Inspired Service, opening September 12, 2026.   CPOC Resources Website: phila.gov/CPOC Know Your Rights—Free to Leave: phila.gov/FreeToLeave Phone: 215-685-0891 Email: [email protected] Instagram: @PHLCPOC Facebook: PHLCPOC   Learn more about the 9/11 Memorial & Museum at 911memorial.org. Facebook at National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

In this episode of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Tonya McClary, Executive Director of Philadelphia’s Citizens Police Oversight Commission (CPOC), about building trust, transparency and accountability between law enforcement and the communities they serve. McClary explains how CPOC investigates police misconduct, assists residents with the complaint process and helps protect their rights. She also discusses the Mere Encounter Project, the “Free to Leave” campaign and upcoming community workshops designed to help Philadelphians understand their rights during police interactions.   The episode also features Carl E. Singley, a distinguished attorney, educator and civil-rights advocate who participated in the historic Selma-to-Montgomery march and heard Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak at Brown Chapel AME Church. Singley reflects on growing up under Jim Crow, breaking barriers as Temple University Law School’s first African American and youngest dean, and carrying the fight for justice into his legal career. He also shares his perspective on voting rights, affirmative action, DEI and whether hard-won civil-rights gains are being rolled back. Singley is also a founding member and leading voice of the Ona Judge Coalition, a nonprofit, nonpartisan, multiracial alliance dedicated to preserving the true history of slavery at the President’s House in Philadelphia. Through its “Who Is Ona Judge?” public-awareness initiative, the coalition honors Ona Judge, who escaped enslavement by George and Martha Washington on May 21, 1796, and works to ensure that her courage and the stories of others who liberated themselves are not erased. The coalition’s advocacy helped establish May 21 as Ona Judge Day in Philadelphia. CPOC Resources Website: phila.gov/CPOC Know Your Rights—Free to Leave: phila.gov/FreeToLeave Phone: 215-685-0891 Email: [email protected] Instagram: @PHLCPOC Facebook: PHLCPOC Ona Judge Coalition Resources Website: WhoIsOnaJudge.org Instagram: @WhoIsOnaJudge Ona Judge Day: May 21