OUR HISTORY

OUR HISTORY: A LEGACY OF FAITH, VISION, AND TRANSFORMATION

In 1982, Reverend Dr. Herbert H. Lusk, II answered a divine calling to pastor Greater Exodus Baptist Church, a struggling congregation in North Philadelphia burdened by financial crisis and dwindling membership. Once a celebrated running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, Rev. Lusk left behind a successful NFL career to serve a community gripped by poverty, crime, and systemic neglect. At the time, Greater Exodus had only 17 active members and over $400,000 in structural damage and unpaid utility bills. Many questioned his decision—but Rev. Lusk was walking by faith.

Through unwavering commitment and visionary leadership, Rev. Lusk led Greater Exodus through a remarkable revival. By the late 1980s, the church had become debt-free, structurally restored, and alive with purpose. Even after a devastating fire in 1992, the congregation quickly rebuilt and pressed forward with renewed strength. But Rev. Lusk’s vision extended far beyond the pulpit.

THE BIRTH OF PEOPLE FOR PEOPLE, INC.

In 1989, that vision took root with the founding of People for People, Inc. (PFP)a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Officially incorporated in 1991, PFP was established by Rev. Dr. Lusk to bring lasting transformation to North Central Philadelphia through education, mentoring, entrepreneurship, and community development. What began as a faith-driven dream has become a powerful force for hope and renewal.

Since its inception, People for People has equipped thousands of individuals and families with the tools to rise above poverty and build sustainable futures. The organization developed workforce training programs that helped community members secure livable-wage jobs. A state- of-the-art computer lab was introduced to provide underemployed and unemployed individuals with essential digital and office skills. At the heart of this work lies a belief that every person deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, stability, and purpose.

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION

In 2001, People for People Charter School opened its doors with a mission to develop future leaders. Housed in the beautifully restored former Philadelphia Traffic Court building, the school now serves over 500 students annually. Above the school, The View a premier conference and banquet center. It was launched to host community events and generate economic activity.

EXPANDING ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPACT

In a groundbreaking partnership with Project H.O.M.E. and musician Jon Bon Jovi, PFP co- developed a five-story facility offering transitional housing for formerly homeless individuals and storefront space for small businesses. Responding to the need for compassionate pregnancy care, PFP also launched the HOPE Pregnancy Center, offering support and resources to women, men, and families navigating unplanned pregnancies.

REBUILDING FAMILIES, RESTORING FUTURES

Recognizing the critical role of fathers in family stability, PFP launched Project D.A.D., an initiative helping ex-offender fathers reconnect with their children, develop positive parenting skills, and reenter the workforce. With the support of a $10 million federal grant, this life-changing program has impacted thousands of lives across Philadelphia.

At its core, People for People, Inc. is dedicated to breaking the generational cycle of poverty, transforming lives by turning struggle into strength and despair into destiny. Through education, economic empowerment, and holistic care, PFP continues to build stronger families and safer communities.