Somerset Academy Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia, PA. We work to empower the early childhood education community, close the resource gap for children with special needs, and build pathways out of poverty for youth and families through innovative programming, workforce development, and community engagement initiatives.

Somerset Academy Inc. is nationally recognized for its innovative approach to addressing gun violence. Our flagship programs—Funk Not Fight and Philly B.E.A.T.S.—use arts, culture, and community connection to interrupt cycles of violence. What makes our approach distinctive is the integration of technology and state-of-the-art data analytics that allow us to measure outcomes in real time and continuously improve program delivery. We address gun violence not just as a safety issue, but as a public health and economic justice challenge.

Operation Peace is our workforce development initiative designed to prevent violence by creating real economic opportunity. Through industry-certified training in construction, logistics, forklift operations, and drone technology, we equip at-risk youth with credentials that lead to sustainable careers. Operation Peace treats poverty and hopelessness as root causes of community violence—and addresses them directly.

No. Somerset Academy Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Somerset Academy Early Learning Center (SAELC) is a separate, independent for-profit entity. Both were founded by Barbara Chavous-Pennock, who remains a principal of both organizations. SAELC is led by CEO Tiffany Chavous and operates with its own board, finances, and corporate structure. For information about SAELC’s early childhood programs, please visit the SAELC website directly.

Somerset Academy Inc. was founded by Barbara Chavous-Pennock, a lifelong advocate for early childhood education, special needs inclusion, and community empowerment. Barbara’s vision of equitable, innovative programming continues to drive every initiative we undertake.

Somerset Academy Inc. is led by its founder, Barbara Chavous-Pennock. Somerset Academy Early Learning Center (SAELC), our independent for-profit early learning partner, is led by CEO Tiffany Chavous.

Technology is central to how we work. Our programs leverage state-of-the-art data analytics to measure participant outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate impact to our partners and funders. Operation Peace includes drone technology training in partnership with Goddess of Drones, giving participants access to one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. We believe that technology, properly applied, is a powerful equalizer.

We are proud to collaborate with a wide range of partners across the public, private, and academic sectors. Our partners include OIC, SSSPAP, the School District of Philadelphia, ABHMS, Victims Services, the City of Philadelphia, Temple University, Alvernia University, West Chester University, Queen of Drones, DVR, BBC, OKN, Orleans Technology College, the Strong Families Commission, the Institute for the Advancement of Working Families Inc., Commonwealth Citizens Council Inc., the Mayor’s Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs, PCCD, Inner City Capital Connections, ICIC of Harvard University, and SCORE.

You can support our mission by donating, partnering with us, or joining one of our programs. Contact us at (267) 639-9664 or through our website to learn more.