Past Grants

1000 Friends of Maryland

Two-year funding for continued support of staffing and expenses in support of the Partners for Open Space campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to ensure that full funding of the dedicated one-half of 1 percent of Maryland’s transfer real estate tax remains earmarked for planning, acquisition, and development of recreation land or open space areas as part of Program Open Space, serving as a national model of a successful conservation strategy.

Year Up Washington, Inc.

Toward continued support and expansion of the Year Up Baltimore program, a workforce development initiative for up to 64 at-risk young adults ages 18 to 24 in Baltimore City. Year Up provides one year of information technology training. During the first six months of the program, participants are paid weekly stipends and attend classes. For the next six months, students are placed in paid internships and are then assisted in finding professional level jobs.

The Work First Foundation

For continued support of the Baltimore Ex Offender Re-entry Employment Program for America Works of Maryland participants. The program aims to place 400 ex-offenders into jobs paying an average of $8.50 an hour. The program will help those placed into jobs retain employment for up to 180 days.

The Urban Alliance Foundation, Inc.

Toward support of a workforce development initiative to serve low-income youth in Baltimore City. In partnership with the Baltimore City Department of Social Services, Urban Alliance serves 15 youth, ages 18 to 21, who are aging out of foster care, and provides paid internship opportunities to help increase the youths’ work skills. At least nine youth will be placed into unsubsidized employment, or enrolled into postﾭsecondary education or training programs.

Tuerk House, Inc.

Toward expansion of the Open Doors Social Enterprise Project, including staffing costs, stipends for 52 program participants, and the purchase of a 15-passenger van. The Open Doors program will secure cleaning and landscaping contracts, and assist graduates in finding jobs and transitioning into independent living.