Philadelphia releases community engagement app

The City of Philadelphia last month released a new app that allows community members to look up meetings, events, cleanups and resources around their neighborhoods.

Called myPhillyRising, the app is centered on collaboration as members can creative events, share success stories and photos or post questions on comments on their neighborhood’s discussion board.

“We are excited to have an online location where residents will be able to both learn about activities and resources in their community as well as interact and create new events,” said John Farrell, director of PhillyRising. “Connecting residents who are interested in improving their neighborhoods is part of the core mission of PhillyRising, and this app will simplify that process.”

The app can be accessed through any browser at myPhillyRising.com or through the Philly311 Mobile App. The app was built to work across platforms, allowing it to work on any smartphone, tablet, desktop or laptop.

Being a central platform, the app is a sustainable way for community members to communicate. There are no back-end changes needed for the app to update itself such as when it pulls from community calendars and other outside sources.

“The myPhillyRising app is the latest tool in the city’s efforts to engage residents in improving their neighborhoods,” said Philadelphia Managing Director Rich Negrin. “It helps residents connect with neighbors and resources in their neighborhood, including those that can help close the digital divide. If you need help from the City, use Philly311, but if you want to help and get involved, use myPhillyRising.”