Service groups abound off campus

Breaking down the barriers between students and West Philadelphia residents is a hard task, but several community groups try to do precisely that by including students in their activities, which range from rehabilitating abandoned properties to crime patrols. The group with the largest number of students within its boundaries is the Spruce Hill Community Association. Spruce Hill covers the area from Market Street to Chester Street between 40th and 46th streets. Spruce Hill has made a significant effort to work with the University students in the last year, particularly with regard to security and safety. The Spruce Hill watch oversees several blocks frequented by students. Directly north of campus is Powelton Village, an area that some students might consider Drexel's turf, but is inhabited by many University graduate students. The Powelton Village Civic Association has over 200 members working to improve the community. PVCA, which extends from the Schuylkill River to 38th Street and out to Haverford Avenue, conducts neighborhood cleanups in the fall and spring. PVCA's other activities include planting projects and a zoning committee which reviews zoning laws. A monthly newsletter is sent to PVCA members, keeping them informed of activities and issues in which the group is involved.