Abell Foundation Inc

A recent Abell-funded study shows that the homebuying program at St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center, Inc. has helped low- and moderate-income families become homeowners and build equity. In fact, appreciation on the homes still occupied by the original buyer has averaged $96,000. Read this great story in the Baltimore Fishbowl to learn more about St. Ambrose’s model and the impact they’ve had.

In a pair of companion reports released today, researchers from the University of Maryland examine the current state of police-community relations in Baltimore City and how certain initiatives could help to improve them. In focus groups and interviews for Part 1, Black Baltimoreans shared their honest opinions and hopes for the future. Part 2 explores how other cities implemented alternative responses to non-criminal emergency calls, like mental health crises, to glean lessons Baltimore can apply as it expands its own program. Read the reports to learn more.

Astor Court, in Baltimore’s Old Goucher neighborhood, was one the of first purpose-built housing projects for teachers in the US. It successfully provided affordable housing for teachers, repurposed a vacant building, spurred additional investment, and became a model for other developers. Learn more about the project: https://lnkd.in/eBNVYAJJ

Through a partnership with @ubaltlaw and the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Services, the Human Trafficking Prevention Project provides legal representation to survivors of human trafficking in criminal and civil matters. Learn more about how the project is expanding services: https://lnkd.in/exE85q3P

“I now know that even with a conviction, there are no limits. I am capable and deserving of more.” From Prison Cells to PhD is helping scholars like Rachelle pursue higher education and reenter the workforce after being incarcerated. https://lnkd.in/e-WDENhD

Our new report asks why Maryland continues to authorize billions in investments in our natural gas infrastructure, as we look to drastically reduce our natural gas consumption to meet the state’s climate goals? If we don’t make changes to STRIDE, low-income households will bear the brunt of skyrocketing natural gas costs. Learn more:

Turnaround Tuesday is creating a win-win situation for Baltimore’s institutions and unemployed residents. In 2022, it placed 260 people into quality jobs paying over $15/hour at local hospitals and universities. https://lnkd.in/e6ym9H47

In our latest report, we examine data to see if Baltimore City Public Schools have been affected by the reported “teacher exodus.” Compared to pre-COVID years, City Schools retained more teachers after the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. While teacher retention rates improved overall, the data also suggests that the city could face new challenges in recruiting and developing the next generation of teachers. Read the full report to learn more.

Only about 50% of students graduating from City Schools go on to a 2- or 4-year college. Our grantees iMentor, CollegeBound Foundation, Building STEPS, and University System of Maryland are working to improve college outcome for City Schools students. Read more: https://lnkd.in/g6JygVYp

Today, there are over 100 after-school robotics teams from 60 school across Baltimore City. 500 students participated in 2022, learning teamwork, leadership, and problem solving while building really cool robots. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g7Y28_KQ