We believe that a community of creative problem-solvers, faced with complicated, seemingly intractable challenges, is well-served by thought-provoking, research-based information and analysis. We support the development and dissemination of research in two ways:
Abell Reports are commissioned reports by subject matter experts, academics, and investigative journalists that provide studies of selected issues on the public agenda.
These projects – undertaken with grant funding by academics and nonprofit research and advocacy organizations – advance learning on issues key to Baltimore City.
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In 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a consent decree for the Baltimore Police Department, mandating wide-ranging reforms. In a pair of companion reports, researchers from the University of Maryland examine the current state of community-police relations and how certain initiatives could help to improve them.
Eviction prevention programs, which cover up to three months of past-due rent, are a cost-effective way to stabilize families, pay landlords, and reduce costs to the state. This report examines two different scenarios that would prevent disruptive displacements.
Ten years ago, Maryland’s legislature passed a bill to expedite utilities’ replacement of their natural gas pipes in the name of safety. Since then, Maryland has adopted ambitious climate goals that will require the near elimination of natural gas use in homes by 2045. Yet the state continues to allow utilities to invest billions in replacing pipes, which consumers will have to pay for — with a profit for the utilities — for decades to come.
An examination of retail competition in the energy market in Maryland reveals that, overall, it is not benefitting residential consumers and is especially harmful to low-income households.
For making a school an effective place to get help and an anchor of the community.
A new web-based research tool, created with support from the Abell Foundation puts data in a new public format and allows stakeholders to identify trends and better support our communities.
For putting youth on a pathway to a family-sustaining wage.
Our 2017 Annual Report highlights workforce development programs that successfully place returning citizens in jobs; changes to the pretrial system that reduce the reliance on cash bail; career and technical education (CTE) pathways that lead to meaningful careers; expanded access to sports programs and physical activity; progress in the fight against youth homelessness; energy and safety upgrades for seniors and low-income homeowners that stabilize neighborhoods; and investments in entrepreneurs that grow our city and our economy.
Header photo courtesy of Venture for America.
