COUNCILMEMBER CINDY BASS LAUNCHES “PLAYING IT SAFE IN THE 8TH” TO ENHANCE SAFETY AT RECREATION CENTERS

April 25, 2025

 In response to growing concerns about youth safety at local recreation centers, Councilwoman Cindy Bass is launching a bold, proactive initiative called “Playing It Safe in the 8th” to protect and support families across the 8th District. 

The program was officially announced at a press conference on Friday, April 25 at 9:00 AM, held at Happy Hollow Recreation Center, 4800 Wayne Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144

The initiative introduces Community Partnership Hubs—on-site, shared spaces staffed by trained violence intervention specialists from PAAN (Philadelphia Anti-Drug/Anti-Violence Network) and Community Relations Officers from the Philadelphia Police Department. These hubs will be embedded inside targeted recreation centers to establish a daily, trusted presence focused on de-escalation, engagement, and real-time conflict prevention.

Phase one will launch at four pilot locations: Jerome Brown, Happy Hollow, Lonnie Young, and Belfield Recreation Centers, strategically selected for their high youth engagement and histories of safety concerns.

“We know our recreation centers are safe havens for families—but we also know they need to feel that way every day,” said Councilwoman Cindy Bass. “This initiative brings together trusted community voices and trained professionals to provide a consistent, non-enforcement presence that supports our youth, prevents violence, and builds lasting trust.”

PAAN’s involvement brings deep experience in violence interruption, while Community Relations Officers serve in a non-policing role to foster safety and connection without criminalization. The goal is to bridge public safety with community-based care, and to ensure young people have the freedom to thrive in safe, supportive environments.

This initiative is being delivered in partnership with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, PAAN, and Police Districts 14th, 35th, and 39th.

About Councilwoman Cindy Bass: Elected to City Council in 2012, Councilwoman Cindy Bass represents Philadelphia’s 8th District, covering Germantown, Mt. Airy, Chestnut Hill, Logan, and parts of North and Northwest Philadelphia. A lifelong Philadelphian and graduate of Temple University, she has dedicated her career to enhancing public safety, expanding youth programs, and improving quality of life for her constituents. Councilwoman Bass serves on multiple key committees and is known for championing initiatives that address housing, education, public health, and community development. She has led efforts to improve parks and recreation centers, combat illegal dumping, and introduce inclusive play and fitness spaces. Her legislative work includes the Nuisance Business Bill and stronger penalties for catalytic converter theft. She also launched a paid Restorative Justice Circle Keeper program to train inner-city youth and remains active in workforce development, food access, and expungement services. Councilwoman Bass lives in East Mount Airy and continues to lead with a people-first, community-driven approach. Phlcouncil.com