In 2001, Rick Sayles established Penn’s Civilians as a volunteer-based outreach organization with a mission to support the social and academic development of low socio-economic youth. Mentorship meetings grew into natural science discussions that inspired school beautification and community service projects that led children to interact with nature. Sayles firmly believes in the transformative potential of connecting youth with the natural environment. Over the past two decades, Sayles has done just this, specifically with low-income students in South Central Pennsylvania.
Through Penn’s Civilians, Sayles has launched various community garden projects, most notably one within the Steelton-Highspire School District. Additionally, the organization administers interactive agricultural enrichment activities that engage students in planting, nurturing, and harvesting produce. Sayles hopes these activities also impart valuable life skills such as self-sufficiency and community cooperation. PACT has been proud to work with Sayles since he joined the Community Advisory Board in 2015.
In 2024, Sayles received the Annual Civic Award of the Harrisburg Area Civic Garden Center and was recognized as a Trailblazer and Trendsetter by PennLive, affirming his impact on central Pennsylvania's urban youth development landscape. His work extends beyond school boundaries, with local businesses collaborating to bolster and supplement produce from the gardens. Looking forward, Penn’s Civilians seeks to take its community-supported programming statewide, reaching more students across the Commonwealth. This expansion depends on support from volunteers and donors. Donations are essential for sustaining and expanding the organization's reach.
Rick Sayles and Penn’s Civilians invite individuals and organizations to join them in their mission. Together, through dedication and collective effort, they are committed to preparing Pennsylvania's youth for success. We are
To reach out, email Penn’s Civilians at admin@pennscivilians.com. You can also check out their website at www.pennscivilians.com.