(A guest post by Justin Lamorella from the Public Allies)

Public Allies Pittsburgh, a national AmeriCorps program, is partnered with the Coro Center for Civic Leadership.
Public Allies’ mission is to advance new leadership to strengthen communities, nonprofits, and civic participation.  Public Allies is changing the face and practice of leadership in communities across the country by demonstrating the conviction that everyone can lead, and that lasting social change results when citizens of all backgrounds step up, take responsibility, and work together.  The ten-month program consists of a placement with a local nonprofit organization, community service, leadership training, and a Team Service Project (TSP) in a local community.

It is that last part, which has brought us to the Polish Hill neighborhood.  The aim of of TSP is to support a community-based organization in a community-driven initiative by applying our knowledge, assets, and abilities.

The Polish Hill team has been immersing itself in the neighborhood since mid-October, meeting with locals and learning about all things Polish Hill.  You might have seen us walking around or drinking coffee in Lili’s.  If you haven’t, stop in to Lili’s and say hello – we meet there on Wednesdays from 7:30 – 9:00 pm.

If you have been wondering what we are proposing to do in Polish Hill, with the support of the community, come to our project proposal at the West Penn Senior Center on March 17, 2011 at 7:00 pm.  We hope to see you there!  For more information, email us at publicalliespolishhill@gmail.com or call 412-256-8583.