What We’re Learning

What We’re Learning

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

Abell Reports are commissioned reports by subject matter experts, academics, and investigative journalists that provide studies of selected issues on the public agenda.

Abell-Supported Research

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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    Featured Reports

    Photo courtesy of the Goucher Prison Education Partnership.

    2024 Annual Report

    A reflection on the promising new approaches and new resources that have been brought to bear in the last decade.

    Abell Report: “Justice by Geography”: Improving Pretrial Electric Monitoring in Maryland

    Recent changes to state funding have reignited conversations among Maryland corrections leaders about expanding and strengthening electronic monitoring (EM) and pretrial services. This report summarizes key findings from the Justice Policy Institute’s research into EM as well as best practices.

    Abell Report: Evidence of Racial Bias in Home Appraisals in the Baltimore Metropolitan Area

    Racial bias in home appraising can harm individuals by making home purchases more expensive or refinancing unattainable, but when compounded on the community level, it can have profound impacts on minority communities’ ability to build wealth. Using newly available federal data, this report finds evidence of systemic appraisal bias that undervalues homes in predominantly Black communities in Baltimore City and the surrounding counties.

    Publications Library

    Baltimore’s Center of Controversy

    Should a new “Convention Center Hotel” be built adjacent to the Convention Center? If so, who should own it? The city favors itself—is that decision the right one? Facts, figures, and questions for a deliberating community and City Council.

    Abell Salutes: St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center

    For taking control of asset control, and for stabilizing neighborhoods by buying, renovating, and selling “foreclosed” houses.

    Help Wanted: Career & Technology Education in Baltimore City Schools

    Evidence strongly suggests the CTE belongs among BCPSS’s high school reforms. This report examines why and how, and the cost.

    Abell Salutes: Community Law Center

    To see their work, walk down your street.

    Nightmare for Baltimore’s Day Laborers

    Their exploitation in the marketplace is too costly in both economic and humane terms. The facts, and recommendations.

    Header photo courtesy of Venture for America.