Baltimore’s network of 40 urban farms and 60 community gardens is helping residents cope with rising grocery costs by providing affordable—or often free—fresh produce in neighborhoods with limited healthy food options. Rooted in a century-old tradition and strengthened by decades of city policy, these farms not only feed communities but also foster job skills, entrepreneurship and social connection.
Category: NEWS
From vision to venture: Founders building with heart and hustle
Black business ownership is on the rise, with entrepreneurs like Anissa Truitt, Christina Sledge and Ceal Starks transforming personal missions into purpose-driven, community-centered ventures.
Abell Foundation names Fagan Harris as new president and CEO
Fagan Harris, chief of staff to Governor Wes Moore, has been named the next president and CEO of the Abell Foundation. He will assume the role Jan. 5, 2026, becoming only the second leader in the foundation’s history after Robert C. Embry Jr., who served nearly 40 years.
Innovation with intention: The power and diversity of Black-owned ventures
Black entrepreneurs across industries are redefining success by centering community, innovation and purpose. From holistic health to tech accelerators to campus digital transformation, these leaders are proving that entrepreneurship in the Black community is as diverse as it is resilient.
Black families push past barriers to save lives through swimming and water safety
Barriers like cost, access, and generational fear continue to prevent many Black youth from learning how to swim, contributing to a disproportionately high rate of drowning deaths. Through programs like Baltimore’s 4M Swim Club, families are working to change the narrative—embracing water safety, building confidence, and developing a new generation of Black swimmers and lifeguards.
Georgia officer David Rose killed in shooting at CDC campus in Atlanta
DeKalb County police officer David Rose, 33, was killed in the line of duty after confronting a gunman who fired more than 500 rounds near the CDC campus in Atlanta. The gunman had previously expressed anger over the COVID-19 vaccine.
Featherstone Foundation honors exceptional students awarding $63,000 in college scholarships
The Featherstone Foundation awarded $63,000 in scholarships to Baltimore’s next generation of leaders and presented the inaugural Featherstone Historic Achievement Award to West Muhammad, the youngest freshman ever enrolled at Coppin State University, and the 2025 Featherstone Changemaker Award to Emmy® Award-winning executive producer Travis E. Mitchell.
Young Successful Leaders Incorporated to Receive $50,000 Huddle Up for Health Grant from CareFirst and Baltimore Ravens
CareFirst and the Baltimore Ravens have awarded Young Successful Leaders Inc. (YSLI) a $50,000 grant to expand its mental health, violence prevention and youth development programs in Baltimore.
Where are the Epstein files? Democrats press for answers as the current administration stonewalls
Democratic lawmakers are intensifying calls for the 47th president’s administration to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein, accusing officials of stonewalling the public. The president, meanwhile, has turned on supporters within his own base who echo those demands, calling them “weaklings” who’ve “bought into this bulls—.”
Inaugural HBCU Hoops Invitational coming to Walt Disney World Resort in December
The inaugural HBCU Hoops Invitational, featuring men’s and women’s college basketball teams from historically Black colleges and universities, will take place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Florida from Dec. 4-7, with the goal of supporting HBCU players, schools and students through scholarships, academic assistance and career development opportunities.
D.C. Council advances Commanders’ stadium deal in first vote
The D.C. Council voted 9-3 to approve the Washington Commanders stadium deal, which is expected to create 2,000 permanent jobs, 14,000 construction positions, and generate $26.6 billion in redevelopment tax revenue, with a second and final vote expected on September 17.
Baltimore sees progress on gun violence
Baltimore’s recent drop in gun violence, including a record-low number of homicides in April, signals progress driven by focused intervention strategies like the Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS). Experts warn, however, that cuts to federal funding and growing online threats could undermine fragile gains. Leaders are calling for sustained investment, youth engagement and statewide collaboration to keep the momentum going.

