A new generation of Black social innovators is reshaping Baltimore’s future through the Drs. Elmer & Joanne Martin Social Impact Fellowship, a six-month program by CLLCTIVLY that nurtures collaboration, cultural leadership and community wealth across the city’s arts, education, health and technology sectors.
Category: COMMUNITY
Restaurants, city agencies step up to support workers and families facing food and housing insecurity
By Chianti Marks and Victoria MejicanosAFRO Intern, AFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com While the Trump administration and lawmakers in Congress played political brinkmanship over the budget, leaving the well-being of millions hanging in the balance, organizations, local government agencies and corporations in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., have been offering support to furloughed federal workers and residents impacted […]
AFRO News to honor U.S. veterans for their service
AFRO News will host their annual “Salute to Our Veterans” event on Nov. 13 at Martin’s West, located on 6817 Dogwood Road, Baltimore, MD.
Baltimore couple find strength in community amid Hurricane Melissa as Maryland leaders rally relief for Jamaica
After surviving Hurricane Melissa while in Jamaica for a wedding, Baltimore couple Rudy and Jonelle Hooks found comfort in the compassion of fellow guests and support from their Maryland community. As they returned home, local officials and Jamaican-born leaders launched relief efforts, mobilizing donation drives to aid those affected by the storm.
Teach your kids backyard and urban farming to promote nutrition and neighborhood health
Community gardens in urban areas provide inter-generational learning, promote social cohesion, provide nutrition education, reduce crime, lower grocery bills, create jobs, reduce carbon footprint, and improve air and soil quality.Community and backyard gardens teach children about nutrition, provide fresh produce, lower grocery costs, and strengthen neighborhood ties. Urban farming also promotes intergenerational learning, community cohesion, economic opportunities, and environmental benefits, while requiring organized efforts to overcome space, soil, resource, and regulatory challenges.
4th annual Baltimore Together Summit to spotlight strides in economic growth
The fourth annual Baltimore Together Summit will take place on Oct. 27, bringing together city leaders, entrepreneurs and community stakeholders to celebrate progress and discuss strategies for an inclusive economy. The gathering will spotlight achievements in Black-owned business growth, neighborhood revitalization and workforce development while unveiling the latest Baltimore Together 2025 Progress Report.
The AFRO Named Among the Nation’s Top Black News Outlets on Two Feedspot Lists
The AFRO-American Newspapers, the nation’s oldest continuously published Black-owned newspaper still owned by its founding family, has been named to Feedspot’s list of the “45 Best Black News Websites of 2025.” The recognition honors The AFRO’s legacy of trusted journalism and its continued innovation in digital media, storytelling, and community engagement.
Free Halloween weekend Lyft rides throughout Greater Washington prevent drunk driving
By Washington Regional Alcohol Program Preparing to combat that time of year when, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than one-third (39 percent, 2022) of U.S. traffic deaths involve drunk drivers, a local nonprofit organization announced today that free safe rides will be offered to would-be drunk drivers throughout the Washington-metropolitan […]
Clean Community Challenge rekindles Baltimore’s neighborhood spirit
Baltimore’s Clean Community Challenge is empowering residents to lead neighborhood cleanups and beautification projects across 24 neighborhoods. Inspired by the historic AFRO Clean Block program, the initiative supports 27 grassroots efforts with funding and guidance. “It’s about building real community,” said participant Bernard, who involved local youth in his project through The Community Group Inc.
Teach your kids backyard and urban farming to promote nutrition and neighborhood health
Community and backyard gardens teach children about nutrition, provide fresh produce, lower grocery costs, and strengthen neighborhood ties. Urban farming also promotes intergenerational learning, community cohesion, economic opportunities, and environmental benefits, while requiring organized efforts to overcome space, soil, resource, and regulatory challenges.
Single in the City: Recognizing abuse when it doesn’t leave bruises
Abuse doesn’t always leave bruises; it can whisper through control, criticism and isolation. October’s purple ribbons shine a light on the truth that love should never hurt—but too often, it does.
Bank of America hosts three-day financial literacy event in West Baltimore
Bank of America recently held a three-day event, educating locals on financial literacy and wellness programs. The event took place at the Bon Secours Community Resource Center from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2.

