mazzy

the philadelphia freeze! our uwhl team

women's travel team that's trans inclusive and been around since 74! you (yes you!🫵) can even apply to join with five teams of different skill levels :) i haven’t played with them before but i have met people who have and i’ve seen them play, it’s amazing! they have players from 18 all the way to 50+ and are truly a great example of how hockey is for everyone, regardless of their age or skill level.

philadelphia fight- community health org

the organization helps provide access to clinical treatment and services! they do their best to provide healthcare from HIV testing to dental care to educational workshops, for everyone of all classes, color, and sexuality. from personal experience they are an amazing group to work with and to use as a resource. you’re able to help by volunteering or donating!

philly slow girl run club- an easier alternative!

as a disabled person who still loves being active and social, i find this so much more accommodating and enjoyable than the other run clubs in philly! it’s an inclusive space where women are able to get started in walks and runs without the pressure of keeping up due to pace led groups. they have multiple events a week that make easy to pick and chose as well as work around your own schedule. they’re very queer and poc friendly and i’ve met such lovely women of all ages! you can connect with them via their insta @/phillyslowgirlrunclub

women's law project- nonprofit legal

sadly we live in a world where these crimes and attacks will continue to happen, so i fully believe in supporting those who work their hardest to prosecute and bring justice. founded in 74, they’re a public interest legal organization working to help the rights of women, girls, and queer people in pennsylvania and more. not just in legislation, they also provide support for those dealing with domestic and sexual violence. the best way to support is by spreading word, but i also strongly encourage you to donate either to the organization or for youth access to help them continue on.

smaller, non specific things i urge you to look into:

as much as i like to stay politically vocal and informed, i think it also matters to focus smaller, such as your county, your city, your town! we want to see some grand change and it can be demotivating to see little happen especially right now. but the ways i’ve felt i’ve made a difference doesn’t come from that, it comes from smaller things i’ve done such as volunteering or engaging in my community.

local book clubs- they often are so welcoming and a great thing to do if you’re already a reader! if you’re in south jersey there’s a bookstore crawl on the 6th hosted by bookishly buy! if not, there’s a bunch of other public book clubs and book runs across philly and new jersey.

shop local- some of my comments and takes may come from the fact that i am privileged enough to do what i speak, but i believe it is still important. wether im thrifting or looking for art supplies or just something cute, i always find it much nicer to shop local, speak with people and engage in whats around me. especially if its a flea market where im able to support local artists and shops in a more convenient place. even walking around the farmers markets and being present means something. it may not be much, but at least i know im helping someone in my community rather than a corporation.

volunteer- if you have the time and capability, use it! helping your local food drives or shelters, joining in on street cleanups, protesting and being there to show support, it all means so much to someone.

even just talk- i used to be the biggest introvert, but i grew out of it because sometimes being kind is worth it. compliment that person, smile at the homeless person, start conversations with people when you’re in public spaces. sometimes all someone might need is that, a smile.

i know it’s often just words, we hear and see, to do something to change our ways to help others, and it can often seem daunting to start. but there is a community waiting to accept you and help you learn. i grew up in the suburbs with little happening around me and thought there wasn’t much i could do besides reblog or post on my instagram story. but there is always a chance to start. sometimes you just have to pick up and start being there, not do anything, but be present for your communities. your presence will always matter.