Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner sits down with Michele Parker, a co-survivor, who lost her son, 23-year-old son Evan Baylor to senseless gun violence on June 19th, 2021. Michele has been an advocate since, making her voice known and ensuring her son's name won't become just another number. She describes Evan as a young person who was dedicated, loyal, and driven and continues to uplift his story every day. This is a part of the DAO's "Voices of Survivors" series, where we spend time with survivors who continue to receive support from our office as they continue to heal from loss and grief.

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner spent time with exonoree Curtis Crosland. On December 10th, 1987, police arrested Curtis at 26-years-old and wrongfully charged and convicted him of murder, robbery, and possession of an instrument of crime. His conviction was based on a testimony from witnesses who later recanted their statements. Curtis spent 34 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. Now, Curtis works to give back [as a Community Engagement Liaison at the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office] by building strong relationships within the community of Philadelphia. This is a part of the DAO’s “Voices of Survivors” series, where we spend time with survivors who receive support from our office as they continue to heal from their experiences of loss and grief.

Diamond Beauty Academy (@diamondbeautycosmetic_boutique) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and award-winning beauty school that empowers young men and women through a comprehensive education in cosmetics, hair styling, nail technology, and skincare. CEO Danielle McLane started the concept with Diamond Beauty Cosmetics in 2018 before expanding the idea out to the academy in 2024. "I come from the same hood that [the girls] come from. The one thing we push here is to pour into these girls and just say, 'we love you.'" The goal of the programs the Academy offers is to provide a holistic education to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry, while also focusing on personal growth, self-confidence, and trauma-informed care. Diamond Beauty Academy is a recipient of the Philadelphia District Attorney's and Government Affairs Division's Violence Prevention Grant. The DAO has awarded community-based organizations more than $7 million dollars in violence prevention grants since 2021.

The Azzim Dukes Initiative (@azzimdukesinitiative) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia. It's run by Maleek Jackson, the program's founder and community leader who was born and raised in South Philadelphia. "Azzim Dukes was my little brother. When he was 17, he was fatally shot while I was serving 10 years in prison for a non-violent offense. Two of my older brothers were also shot and killed." After returning from prison, Maleek turned his love for boxing into a commitment to the youth of Philadelphia, with a hope to instill balance, discipline, confidence, and self-love. The Azzim Dukes Initiative is a two-time recipient of the Philadelphia District Attorney's Government Affairs Division's Violence Prevention Grant. The DAO has awarded community-based organizations more than $7 million dollars in violence prevention grants since 2021.

Community Spotlight Series | DAO's Violence Prevention Grant Recipient Rebel Arts is a community organization based in Kensington that offers circus arts and gymnastics classes to people in underserved communities. Through circus arts, the organization empowers its communities to be bold & authentic. @rebelartsmovement accepts students of all learning styles and disabilities. It also offers a sliding scale payment option. Director Alyssa Bigbee is the Founder and Creative Director of the organization, which is also a recipient of the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Asset Forfeiture Community Organization grant. The DAO has awarded more than $4 million dollars in violence prevention grants since 2021.

Ardella's House (@ardellashouse) is a safe home for women and girls who've been impacted by the justice system. The organization offers pre-release mentoring, transitional housing, workforce development, and trauma-informed counseling. Ardella's House was founded by Tonie Willis in 2010. It was born from lived experience with an understanding that when a woman or girl goes to prison, her whole family — her children, her community — serves time with her. And when she comes home, she is often returning to nothing: no job, no home, no support. Ardella's House stands to offer a support that's so deeply needed. The non-profit is a recipient of the Philadelphia District Attorney's and Government Affairs Division's Violence Prevention Grant. The DAO has awarded community-based organizations more than $5.5 million dollars in violence prevention grants since 2021.

District Attorney Mark Dupree of Wyandotte County (Kansas City) held up his end of the bargain after the Eagles Superbowl LIX victory over the Chiefs and sent enough of the city's classic barbecue ribs, chicken, and beans from @joeskc to feed 100 people. As the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection, we decided to donate the fixings to Men Who Care of Germantown as they continue to support violence prevention and food insecurity through @men_who_care 's weekly Food Distribution Program. Philly DAO Staff also volunteered and, of course, repped their Eagles gear! Thank you DA Dupree, and #GOBIRDS. #BlowTheWhistle #SorryChiefs