YMCA ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT provides Adult Basic Ed, Family Literacy, and Computer Training through federal and state grants. In addition to the free classes is one-on-one tutoring for basic literacy and ESL.

FORD MEMORIAL TEMPLE'S LITERACY MINISTRY pairs adult learners with a tutor to upgrade basic reading and math skills, with course work individually designed to meet the learner's interests, employment and daily living needs. Tutors are trained by the Mayor's Commission on Literacy.

THE PHILADELPHIA HIGHER EDUCATION NETWORK FOR NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT is a consortium of 42 area colleges and universities that says it "seeks to revitalize local communities and schools and foster civic responsibility among the region's colleges and universities." Arguing that colleges can be "permanent anchors and partners for community improvement," the network helps to coordinate and combine efforts.