Specter Center

US Squash first partnered with Drexel University in 2011 to bring the U.S. Open Squash Championships to Philadelphia. Over the last decade, the partnership has returned the U.S. Open to its historic prominence as one of the most coveted titles on the professional tour. In 2013, the U.S. Open led the charge for pay equality, becoming the first major tournament to offer prize money parity – an enduring commitment that led to all major professional tournaments now requiring parity in prize funds. Drexel University’s partnership with US Squash was instrumental in the development of the Arlen Specter US Squash Center project, paving the way for usage of the historic Armory building in the heart of the Drexel campus. The Specter Center will now welcome a diverse community of current and new players to the world’s largest community squash center, and make Philadelphia a destination for squash players worldwide while remaining the home of the U.S. Open.

Founded in 2001, SquashSmarts is a free intensive out-of-school time program supporting the lives of Philadelphia’s public school students. SquashSmarts, which was founded using courts at Drexel's Daskalakis Athletic Center prior to expanding to the Lenfest Center in North Philadelphia, will now expand the reach of its core programs through dedicated classroom and mentoring space in the Specter Center’s Learning & Innovation Center.

Inviting and encouraging families to be a part of the Specter Center, regardless of their experience in the sport, is central to US Squash’s vision in leading squash to be more accessible nationally.

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation connects the city’s residents to the natural world, to each other, and to fun physical and social opportunities. They manage historically significant Philadelphia events and special venues. The Rec Center also works with communities and organizations to lead capital projects and introduce creative programming.

CPA established numerous clubs throughout Philadelphia that provide its young members the opportunity to participate in athletic and artistic activities as well as receive counseling. The clubs are located in unused school buildings, church facilities, and donated properties. CPA's Board of Directors, management team and its employees prioritize the importance of supporting the families and communities of at-risk children. This focus helped them develop the family-focused atmosphere of their community centers, and is the keystone of their mission as they expand throughout the Philadelphia region.