Over 32 years ago, two volunteer sisters founded the Providence Center with a clear vision: to listen to the community and offer real responses to its needs. What began as a small local project has grown into a solid organization dedicated to complementing school services and providing children, youth, and adults with a safe space to learn and grow.
A Process of Transformation from Within
With more than three decades of service to the North Philadelphia community, the Providence Center continues to evolve under the leadership of Siria Rivera, its Executive Director. In recent years, the organization has undergone a structural renewal that has strengthened its team, mission, and vision for the future.
Rivera explains that together with her leadership team, Shannon McGill and Carolann Torres, the Providence Center launched its first comprehensive strategic plan.
“It was a no-brainer,” she says. “We knew it was necessary to modernize our structure without losing our essence keeping what worked but positioning ourselves to grow and evolve.”
The year-long process led to an internal reorganization that redefined roles and gave greater autonomy to key leaders. “Before, some decisions were made without including all voices. Now, Shannon and Carolann have the responsibility and freedom to develop the talents they already possess,” Rivera explains.
Purposeful leadership
Within the new leadership team, Shannon McGill, Director of Operations and Compliance, has a clear mission: to inspire teens to discover their own path.
“We want them to imagine new possibilities, to broaden their horizons, and see what they can achieve,” she says.
Programs that transform lives
The Providence Center offers various programs designed to strengthen the academic, emotional, and social development of its participants:
- After School: Academic and recreational support for students from kindergarten through eighth grade.
- Youth Leaders: High school students who serve as mentors and promote community leadership.
- Summer Academy (C2L PHL): For high school youth, focused on mental health, financial literacy, and life preparation.
Finance with vision and commitment
Meanwhile, Carolann Torres, Director of Finance and Grants, has been a key figure in the organization’s stability and sustainability. With over five years of experience at the Providence Center, Torres combines financial strategy with a deep sense of service.
“I work alongside Siria Rivera on the entire grants process from identifying opportunities and writing proposals to reporting on received funds,” she explains. She also oversees accounting, audit preparation, and fundraising campaigns that ensure the continuity of community programs.
Among the organization’s biggest challenges, Torres highlights change in donor priorities. “Some long-term funders have shifted their focus, and many individual donors are adjusting their contributions due to the political and economic climate,” she notes.
A Space that transforms generations
The shared vision of these three women reflects a powerful synergy of strategy, service, and purpose. Their work demonstrates that women’s leadership not only transforms institutions but also creates sustainable impact in the lives of hundreds of families.
A message to the community
With a warm smile and approachable tone, Torres shares a clear message with the community: “We’re here to help and support. We love being part of this community, and our doors are always open. Even if we can’t meet a specific need, we’ll gladly connect you with another organization that can. And if you don’t need anything, you’re still welcome—there are many ways to be part of the Providence Center family.
Challenges and Sustainability
According to Rivera, one of the current major challenges is fundraising. “Yes, we need resources to continue our programs, but also to invest in the building’s future, improve salaries, and ensure long-term stability,” she says.
Growth with quality, not just quantity
In a context where many social programs measure success by numbers, Rivera defends a different approach growth in quality before quantity.
“We could have 60 children in three classrooms, but we prefer each one to have a comfortable, safe space. Our mission isn’t about expanding out of pressure; it’s about strengthening the quality of our operations and administration so we can grow sustainably.”
The value of talent and a vision for the future
Rivera also acknowledges a challenge shared by many nonprofits: finding and retaining talent. However, she emphasizes that the key lies in offering real growth opportunities.
“Shannon and Carolann have stayed because they’ve had the chance to grow professionally. With that growth comes better compensation. That’s how leadership should work—by creating paths for others to prosper as well.”
This approach reflects the Providence Center’s core philosophy: recognizing existing potential and creating spaces where people can develop without fear of judgment, whether they are students, volunteers, or staff members.
Beyond its programs and institutional achievements, the Providence Center has become a beacon of hope in North Philadelphia. Under the leadership of Rivera, McGill, and Torres, the organization has balanced administrative strength with deep human sensitivity.
For more information, contact Providence Center at 215-739-7465.
