Building Stronger Communities Through Collaboration

Baltimore CONNECT serves as a trusted network that brings together community-based organizations, residents, healthcare institutions, government agencies, and local leaders to improve quality of life across East Baltimore. Through collective action, resource sharing, and community-driven solutions, we help strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunities for residents.

Community Leadership & Recognition

Baltimore CONNECT has been recognized as a leading hub for community collaboration by:

  • Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute

  • Johns Hopkins SOURCE

  • Johns Hopkins University President's Office

  • Johns Hopkins Government & Community Affairs

  • Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

  • Numerous community and institutional partners

Our ability to convene diverse stakeholders has positioned Baltimore CONNECT as a trusted partner for addressing community needs and advancing neighborhood well-being.

Funding & Resource Development

Our collaborative approach has helped attract critical investments to support community initiatives:

  • Secured more than $47,000 in philanthropic contributions and private donations

  • Awarded the Fulton Forward Foundation Impact Award ($50,000)

  • Submitted applications for more than $300,000 in state and local grant funding

  • Invited to participate in four federally funded grant proposals, including NIH-supported initiatives, representing potential investments exceeding $750,000 over three years

Responding to Community Needs

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Baltimore CONNECT mobilized quickly to support residents and frontline organizations:

  • Distributed 23,380 protective masks to 26 community-based organizations

  • Shared weekly community updates, testing information, and critical resources through our network newsletter

  • Supported the safe reopening of Northeast Market

  • Contributed to Census outreach efforts that increased resident awareness, engagement, and participation

Strengthening Community Connections

Weekly Collaborative Meetings

Our Virtual Weekly Collaborative Meetings bring together community organizations, service providers, healthcare partners, and residents to identify needs, share resources, and coordinate solutions.

Collaborative Committees

Baltimore CONNECT supports specialized committees that address community priorities, including:

  • Care Coordination

  • Youth Engagement

  • Membership Development

  • Resource Team ("Dream Team")

  • Additional issue-focused working groups

Through these committees, partners collaborate to address emerging challenges and develop sustainable community-driven strategies.

Signature Community Events

Bi-Annual Resource Fairs

Held each spring and fall, our Resource Fairs connect residents from ten East Baltimore neighborhoods with:

  • Health and wellness resources

  • Community services

  • Educational opportunities

  • Youth-focused programming

  • Food and entertainment

  • Local community organizations

Unsung Heroes Awards

Our annual Unsung Heroes Awards celebrate individuals whose dedication and service have strengthened Baltimore communities.

2025 Event Highlights

  • 72 attendees

  • 51 registered participants

  • 32 community award recipients

  • Special recognition of 10-Karat Diamond Award recipient Sarah Broadwater, honored at 94 years young for a lifetime of community impact

Annual Community Conference

Each year, Baltimore CONNECT convenes approximately 150-180 community leaders, residents, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, and institutional partners to share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and advance community priorities.

Investing in Community Partners

Through partnerships and re-granting initiatives, Baltimore CONNECT helps strengthen organizations working in key focus areas.

Youth Engagement

Supporting organizations such as:

  • RICH Foundation

  • Young Successful Leaders

  • Youth Ventures

  • Banner Neighborhoods Community Corporation

  • Students As Tutors

Mental Health & Family Wellness

Supporting organizations such as:

  • Roberta's House

  • ECHO Resource Development

  • NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore

  • The Family Tree

Care Coordination & Community Support

Supporting organizations such as:

  • ASYLEE Women Enterprises (AWE)

  • Men's and Families Center (MFC)

  • Helping Up Mission

Expanding Community Health Access

Baltimore CONNECT partners with community organizations to provide free, convenient health screenings that empower residents with information to better manage their health and connect with care.

2026 Community Screening Initiative

Through community events and direct outreach efforts, screening services have been delivered at partner sites throughout Baltimore, including:

  • Baltimore CONNECT Resource Fair

  • GEDCO

  • ITRC at Lexington Market

  • Bea Gaddy Center

  • The DOOR

  • Divine Counseling Services

Additional community screening events continue throughout the year, including partnerships with Helping Up Mission and other community organizations.

Together with our partners, we are increasing access to preventive care, promoting health awareness, and helping residents take charge of their well-being.

Looking Ahead

Baltimore CONNECT remains committed to building stronger neighborhoods through collaboration, community leadership, health equity, and resident engagement. Every partnership, event, and initiative contributes to our shared vision of a healthier, more connected, and more resilient Baltimore.