The Wawa Foundation Hero Award

The Wawa Foundation Hero Award honors a non-profit organization that is committed to serving Philadelphia by providing services that build stronger communities through preserving our independence, protecting our safety and mentoring and inspiring our youth.

After receiving nearly 3000 votes, we selected Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School as the winner of The Wawa Foundation Hero Award! We proudly presented Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School with their award and a $50,000 grant during the Wawa Welcome America festivities in Philadelphia on Independence Day. The three runners-up were also recognized that day, each receiving a $10,000 grant

The Wawa Foundation commends all four organization for their commitment to serving our communities. Thank you for sharing your inspiring stories with us!

Read the finalists’ stories below, and learn more about the work they’re doing to improve their communities and empower the citizens who live in them.

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Coded by Kids
Coded by Kids’ mission is to prepare underrepresented young people to succeed…
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Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School
Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School, a Catholic, college preparatory school…
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Mighty Writers
Mighty Writers’ mission is to teach kids, ages 3-17, to think clearly and …
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Philadelphia Youth Basketball
Philadelphia Youth Basketball (PYB) is a community-built youth empowerment…
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