By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted June 10, 2026

Every day across Philadelphia, the staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia (CCoP) encounter moments that stick with them. These are occasions marked by courage, vulnerability and profound resilience – experiences that reflect the humanity at the heart of the mission of CCoP.

Stories of service are at the center of People of Hope: Faith-Filled Stories of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, a nationwide storytelling initiative designed to amplify the profound impact of Christian service. The People of Hope Museum is an immersive experience housed in a retrofitted tractor-trailer that is touring the United States for two-and-a-half years. From Thursday June 25 to Friday, June 26, the museum will be hosted by CCoP here in Philadelphia across from the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. The event is free and open to the public between the hours of 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.

Through the People of Hope Museum, visitors can watch first-person video accounts from staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities agencies across the country about meaningful and memorable encounters with families and individuals in need. Visitors will also be able to share their own stories of hope and service through the on-site recording studio, explore U.S. and state-level poverty data through visual displays, experience an interactive poverty simulation and listen to audio book excerpts about poverty, social isolation, bridgebuilding and community action from authors such as Arthur Brooks, Oprah Winfrey, Matthew Desmond and Robert Putnam. 

Among those who are featured in the museum is Peter Greenland, program supervisor for CCoP’s Good Shepherd Program at St. John’s Hospice.

Greenland shares the story of Daniel, his client with undiagnosed mental health challenges who had grown up in a home of addiction and instability. With patience and persistence, Greenland connected him to intensive case management, art therapy, and eventually medication — as well as disability benefits and permanent housing.

“I love working alongside people like Daniel and helping facilitate their journey from homelessness to being housed. It’s a journey I know well,” said Greenland.

Before leading residential services for medically fragile men, Greenland was a resident at St. John’s Hospice while experiencing homelessness after migrating to the United States from Jamaica.

“Through it all, I’ve learned this: Hope isn’t something we give. It’s something we build together.”

Stories like this form the foundation of the People of Hope Museum and highlight the everyday encounters that remind us of the strength and compassion present in our communities. Here in Philadelphia, CCoP nourishes the hungry and provides shelter for those experiencing homelessness; strengthens and supports at-risk children, youth, and families; stabilizes and enriches the lives of seniors; and empowers Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. These services meet immediate needs, but they also nurture the hope that can grow when people feel seen, supported and valued.

“We are pleased to welcome the People of Hope Museum to Philadelphia and to share the powerful stories of how Catholic Charities agencies across the country—including right here in Philadelphia—empower and uplift the communities they serve,” Heather Huot, Secretary and Executive Vice President for CCoP.

The stories shared at CCoP each day deepen our understanding of the needs in our community and inspire our ongoing work. The agency invites community members to learn more about this work and consider getting involved through volunteering or other forms of support.

“As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s birthday, we invite our neighbors and visitors alike to experience the spirit of faith, service, and accompaniment that defines Catholic Charities and reflects the very best of our city.”

The People of Hope Museum’s tour began in New York City on March 26, 2026, and will continue through 2028. The initiative is made possible thanks to a 2024 grant of nearly $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. through an invitational round of its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life. 

To learn more about People of Hope, visit www.peopleofhope.us. To explore volunteer opportunities or learn more about CCoP’s programs, visit ccphila.org.