Community Development

We encourage initiatives that attract resident investment in neighborhoods, promote sustainability, increase economic development opportunities, and nurture entrepreneurial talent.  We aim to increase the livability of neighborhoods, the number of residents, the number of jobs, and the size of the tax base. We are interested in programs that address concentrated poverty, racial wealth disparities, and tie the economic health of Baltimore City to the region.  

As successful households are key to neighborhood health, we support efforts to: 

  • Connect residents to resources to stabilize household finances and build generational wealth
  • Invest in community-led projects, enhance neighborhood amenities, and create green space
  • Reinvest in the reuse and occupancy of neighborhood vacant buildings and lots
  • Prevent foreclosures and evictions
  • Close the digital divide 
  • Increase local fresh food access 
  • Promote small businesses, entrepreneurs, and Baltimore’s maker economy to create jobs 
Program Officers: Beth Harber and Tracey Barbour-Gillett

Considering Applying?

Learn more about our eligibility and review criteria, and small and regular grants processes.

See Our Grants Process

Featured Work in Community Development

Case Study: Astor Court Apartments

Two decades ago, the Abell Foundation saw a need to help attract new teachers to Baltimore and support them in their first years of the profession. Abell combined its commitments to education, community development, and mission-related investments in a unique effort to provide teachers with affordable housing and a supportive community of fellow educators. In 2005, Astor Court Apartments became one of the first purpose-built housing projects for teachers in the country.

Photo courtesy of SOS Fund.

Case Study: SOS Fund

The Stop Oppressive Seizures (SOS) Fund takes a multi-faceted approach to protecting homeownership and preserving residents’ ability to stay in their homes. Ninety percent of SOS clients have an income that falls below 80% of the area median, and 81% identify as Black or African American.

Photo courtesy of Black Women Build – Baltimore.

Case Study: Black Women Build — Baltimore

Black Women Build – Baltimore (BWB-B) is a homeownership and wealth-building initiative that trains Black women in residential construction skills by restoring vacant and disinvested houses in West Baltimore. The homes are available for purchase to those who have contributed time and work to the renovations.

Past Grants

Learn more about our grantees and their work to enhance the quality of life in Baltimore.
Filter our past grants by year or program area, or search by keyword.

See Our Past Grants

Contact Us

Have questions or want to discuss your idea for community development in Baltimore? Get in touch using the form below.

    Header photo courtesy of ReBUILD Metro.