Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives (PAPA) is a volunteer based, grass-roots 501(c)(3) non-profit that works with local organizations to create a positive, effective and motivating force for children in the Phoenixville community.

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In October of  1995, Kenneth D. Winston, George Smith, Darryl Vinson, George Gadsden, and ​Rev. Greg Thornton established Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives in the spirit of The Million Man March. They wanted to provide opportunities for  at risk youth to stay off the streets after school and instead dedicate their time to activities that would help their growth. Their first initiative was the rehabilitation of the C'Jon Saunders Park. 

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Each year, Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives serves the children and youth from surrounding neighborhoods, providing quality programs through academic enrichment, social development, and athletic programming. Many of our programs are offered free or at minimal cost to families. 

 

These include our after-school programs New Direction and Fast Forward to help elementary and middle school students with schoolwork and provide a safe place for them once school has let out, S.A.F.E. (Summer Activities For Enrichment) Camp to keep children's minds working during the off months paired with excursions, and the summer basketball league to provide fun and community for the youth in Phoenixville.

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Primarily a volunteer, grass-roots organization, PAPA works closely with the Phoenixville Area School District, the Borough of Phoenixville, Phoenixville Community Health Foundation and other local organizations to create a positive, effective, and motivating force in the Phoenixville community.​