What Happens to a Dream Deferred?

This report looks at the "enormous survival challenges facing Black males of all ages in communities across Baltimore." The recommendations presented in this initial report are intended to establish a blueprint that can be used to focus city-wide collaborations and refine programmatic strategies to realistically address the alarming challenges faced by Black male youth.

• The report recommends the launching of a Capacity Building and Sustainability Incubator (CBSI) to strengthen the organizational capacity and financial sustainability of a select number of grassroots organizations currently working with Black male youth and adults. To participate in the CBSI, and to be eligible for any funds and technical assistance/ongoing coaching, the organizations would commit to a year-long process. Tweet
• Additionally, the report found investing in the capacity building of grassroots organizations would strengthen the sector and build the community-based infrastructure that is needed to change the narrative around Black male youth in Baltimore. Tweet
• The effectiveness of Baltimore’s grassroots providers serving Black male youth is essential to improve outcomes for Black men and boys. Acknowledging the vital role of these programs means a commitment to strengthening the performance and capacity of the organizations to deliver effective services and results that successfully engage and support Black male youth. Tweet
• The lack of clarity around the importance of meaningful collaboration, lack of data collection protocols, lack of investment -- both financial and training -- and fragmented field of providers limits the understanding of the number of Black male youths being served and the ability for organizations to serve them. Tweet