Spotlight Series: Pittsburgh
The Petey Greene Program operates across the United States as the largest multi-state provider of individualized educational services for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students. We’re excited to give you a closer look at each of our regions. Today, let’s head to our newest regional office: Pittsburgh.
MEET THE TEAM
Eli received his BA in Philosophy and Ethics from Dickinson College, where his studies focused on the ethics and politics of carceral systems. He greatly values the intersectionality of community, art, and education, and hopes to bring them all together to help individuals help themselves. In addition to his work at the Petey Greene Program, Eli is currently pursuing a Masters of Education with a focus on curriculum and instruction.
Ann Marie Lucas, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
Ann Marie graduated college at WVU and quickly recognized the privilege of access to education, leading her to further pursue work in the nonprofit sector with a focus on education. Taking lessons from her own childhood, she has a passion for working with youth and adults on breaking the cycle of generational traumas. The most life-giving thing to Ann Marie is being a part of someone being brave enough to dream, turn those dreams into goals and turn those goals into achievable tasks.
THE PGP IN ACTION
The Pittsburgh region is doing remarkable work supporting students on the inside and outside! Two growing partnerships showcase our work with students on the outside: Literacy Pittsburgh and Cafe Momentum. The PGP provides teaching assistance and tutoring for pre-GED and GED learning for adults through our partnership with Literacy Pittsburgh. The PGP offers academic support for youth and young adults touched by the criminal legal system who are participating in Cafe Momentum's year-long internship. Young people engage in a holistic workforce development program that supports them with mental health, academics, and helps them earn a SafeServ certificate to pursue a career in the restaurant industry.
In addition to these exciting expansions on the outside, the PGP supports students on the inside through a variety of programs at SCI Greene. Students enrolled in College Bridge work towards improving critical thinking, reading, and writing skills for a variety of applications in college and beyond. Eli Diamant, Pittsburgh’s Division Manager, has seen “a massive boost in both writing ability and confidence in learning.”
WHAT’S NEXT IN PITTSBURGH?
As part of our mission, the PGP trains the next generation of thought leaders committed to creating greater justice in our criminal legal system. Volunteers complete a leadership development training as part of their service with the PGP. They have the opportunity to engage in a unique experiential learning opportunity that supports their growth and development while allowing them to give back to their community. In 2025, the Pittsburgh team is thrilled to see the launch of the new student group at the University of Pittsburgh! As the Pittsburgh region looks to expand programs, your support helps us create more opportunities for volunteers to get involved in our programs.
DONATE TODAY
Please support the Petey Greene Program in Pittsburgh as we continue to grow our relationships in the region and meet even more students in their educational and career journey. And remember: donations made in May will be matched 4X!
Did you know that 26 million people work for companies with matching gift programs? Employer matching gift programs allow you to team up with your employer and combine your donation to the Petey Greene Program with your employee benefit to make a greater impact. If your employer matches your gift, your donation can be doubled or even tripled! Click here to learn how to double your impact this year!