Title
Recognizing and honoring Department of Parks and Recreation employee Jeneen Helms for her heroic actions during the mass shooting at Baker Playground on July 13, 2019.
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WHEREAS, Jeneen Helms is a native of Philadelphia, being born in North Philadelphia, and raised in West Philadelphia. She was one of six children growing up in a single-parent home-something she attributes to her desire to work hard, despite any obstacles and circumstances that may come her way; and
WHEREAS, Helms graduated from William Penn High School. She went on to attend Shippensburg University and Community College of Philadelphia, where she majored in Accounting. Her ultimate career goal is to become an accountant; and
WHEREAS, Currently, Helms is a dedicated seasonal employee of the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Parks and Recreation. Helms has been employed by the Department since June of 2015 and works as a pool maintenance attendant; and
WHEREAS, On July 13, 2019, Jeneen Helms was ending her shift at Baker Playground in the Overbrook section of Philadelphia, when a shoot-out occurred during a community cookout and basketball tournament. Seven people were injured in the shooting; and
WHEREAS, With great courage and bravery, Helms rushed to the aid of children and others at the playground at the time of the shooting, making sure that everyone remained safe until help arrived. Helms never hesitated about reporting to work the very next day, just hours after the shooting; and
WHEREAS, Jeneen Helms demonstrated what it means to be a true, caring member of her community, and her heroic actions on the night of July 13th have earned the gratitude and admiration of all Philadelphians; now, therefore be it,
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and honors Department of Parks and Recreation employee Jeneen Helms for her heroic actions during the mass shooting at Baker Playground on July 13, 2019.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Jeneen Helms as evidence of the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
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