Pitt-Assisted Communities & Schools (PACS) is a program of the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work under the faculty leadership of John Wallace and James Huguley. The mission of PACS is to mobilize University of Pittsburgh resources in ways that enrich the lives of Homewood children and youth, while simultaneously advancing the university’s commitment to transformative teaching, learning, and community impact. PACS aims to improve academic, health, mental health, and social and economic outcomes for the children and families who live, learn, work, and play in the community. Signature programs that PACS coordinates include the Justice Scholars program at Westinghouse Academy and Helping Hands in Homewood, through which university students are mobilized to volunteer in the community. In addition, PACS supports research that enhance youth and family outcomes through project such as Just Discipline and the Parenting Project.
