Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee (PMBC) Hosts the Annual Block Captain Rally to Celebrate and Energize Community Leaders

Philadelphia - Mayor Cherelle L. Parker joined the Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee (PMBC), a division of the Department of Sanitation, in celebrating block captains at its annual PMBC Block Captain Rally, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (100 Level Exhibitor Hall) at 1101 Arch Street.

The PMBC Block Captain Rally is a cornerstone event that brings together over 1,000 community leaders from across Philadelphia to celebrate their efforts in keeping city neighborhoods clean and green. The event serves as an opportunity to thank dedicated block captains while providing them with essential resources, city updates, and educational workshops to further support their work.

Mayor Parker served as the keynote speaker at this year's rally. Additional remarks were provided by Department of Sanitation leadership, and other key city officials, including members of City Council, and various city agencies. Event highlights included exhibitor tabling, trade show demonstrations on urban gardening and home improvement, music, and line dancing.

In honor of America's 250^th birthday, the color scheme of the event was red, white, and blue. "As the country marks this historic milestone, the Block Captain Rally is a perfect opportunity to showcase Philadelphia, the birthplace of America's democracy, said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "Block captains have long been a part of that democracy. Our block captains are the heartbeat of Philadelphia. They're the ones knocking on doors, organizing cleanups, and checking on neighbors. That's real community. They remind us that city government can set the table - but it's the neighbors who bring it to life. A Safer, Cleaner, and Greener Philadelphia with Access to Economic Opportunity for All doesn't just start with us, it starts with all of you."

The PMBC Block Captain Rally is just one of the many ways the city engages with residents to maintain a cleaner and greener Philadelphia. "Our block captains are the boots on the ground that makes our neighborhoods cleaner and safer," said Crystal Jacobs Shipman, Department of Sanitation Commissioner. "The PMBC Block Captain Rally is about celebrating their dedication and the volunteers who step up every day. It's a time to connect, share updates and resources, and make sure they feel supported as they keep doing the amazing work that makes a real difference across Philadelphia."

For more information about PMBC and the Block Captain Rally, or to register as a volunteer, visit www.phila.gov/pmbc.