knowledge for impact
the learning lab 2024 - 2025
This year’s theme, “In Sync,” underscores the importance of collaboration, alignment, and transformative impact—all of which are critical as Baltimore gears up to launch its first-ever Youth Master Plan (YMP), convened by the BCYF team.
January 2025
January 22: the learning lab 2025 Kickoff Webinar
On January 22, 2025, BCYF launched its Learning Lab 2025 with a high-energy kickoff webinar, engaging youth-serving organizations in an interactive introduction to the six-month capacity-building experience. Framed by the theme “In Sync,” the session outlined the program’s structure—Learning Circles, field experiences, and the New Orleans Plenary—while highlighting the values of collaboration, youth leadership, and systemic impact.
Participants responded enthusiastically, sharing feedback through live chat and Q&A, and expressing strong interest in the upcoming Learning Lab components. The session also spotlighted insights from past participants and introduced new tools and expectations, building excitement and readiness for the road ahead. Despite minor audio issues and some questions about attendance flexibility, the session exceeded engagement goals and set a confident tone for the Lab.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 90%+ of registered participants attended the full webinar.
- 85% found the session “very” or “somewhat” engaging.
- 88% rated the information as “extremely” or “very” clear and relevant.
- Strong interest expressed in the New Orleans Plenary and Learning Circles.
January 29: Arts Education Youth Development Leaders
In January, gather! united Baltimore’s arts-focused youth development leaders for a powerful convening designed to spark connection, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. The event created space for organizations to build meaningful relationships, exchange bold ideas, and directly contribute to the development of the Baltimore Youth Master Plan. Attendees participated in roundtable discussions and networking designed to elevate community-driven leadership and equitable solutions in the youth development ecosystem.
The convening’s design emphasized creativity, shared learning, and cross-sector momentum. Community voices were central—real stories, practical insights, and bold aspirations grounded the conversation in lived experience. Participants lifted up critical priorities like sustainable funding, neighborhood equity, and partnership building, setting the tone for deeper collaboration in 2025 and beyond.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 100% of participants reported building meaningful new relationships.
- 100% agreed the event created space for collaboration and meaningful dialogue.
- 86% found the content valuable in shaping their understanding of youth development and the Youth Master Plan.
February 2025
February 19: LGBTQ+ Leaders in Youth Development
On February 19, 2025, gather! brought together LGBTQ+ community leaders and allies at Like Water for Chocolate for an evening of connection, collaboration, and empowerment. Designed as an intimate dinner and dialogue, the event fostered authentic relationships, elevated community voice, and directly informed the Baltimore Youth Master Plan.
Through curated roundtables, facilitated introductions, and shared storytelling, attendees built partnerships, exchanged insights, and explored solutions for advancing youth development and equity. The space was intentionally inclusive, affirming LGBTQ+ identities while encouraging vulnerability, visibility, and leadership. Attendees shared ideas around shared power, intergenerational support, and policy impact, demonstrating the power of community-centered design.
This gather! convening reinforced BCYF’s belief that lasting change begins with deep listening and trust. The event not only met—but exceeded—expectations, leaving attendees energized and more connected in their collective work toward youth-centered, equitable systems in Baltimore.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 100% of participants rated the event as excellent
- 100% reported gaining valuable insights for the Youth Master Plan
- 100% confirmed forming meaningful and ongoing connections
- Affirming space praised for safety, visibility, and community responsiveness
- Key success factors: inclusive agenda, strong facilitation, and peer sharing
- Equity wins: LGBTQ+ voices centered; no disparities reported, with a call for broader outreach across identities
February 23 – 26: Opening Plenary: New Orleans Youth Master Plan
Held in New Orleans from February 23–26, 2025, the Opening Plenary marked the official launch of the BCYF Learning Lab 2025, setting a powerful tone of inspiration, alignment, and possibility. Designed as an immersive experience, the convening invited Baltimore-based youth development leaders to learn firsthand from the groundbreaking work behind the New Orleans Youth Master Plan.
Participants engaged in site visits, cultural immersion, and rich dialogue with youth and organizational leaders from New Orleans—including CYPB, NOYA, the Mayor’s Office of Youth and Families, and youth co-authors of the plan. These interactions brought to life the potential of youth-centered, cross-sector planning and offered a compelling model for Baltimore’s own Youth Master Plan.
BCYF’s decision to host the event in New Orleans reinforced the importance of place, identity, and equity. The setting was intentionally chosen to affirm Black and Brown leadership and honor local context as a powerful driver of transformation. The experience deepened relationships, sparked strategic ideas, and reinforced BCYF’s commitment to holding space for collective visioning and systemic change.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 91% of attendees would highly recommend the plenary; average satisfaction score: 4.75/5
- Participants reported deepened knowledge, new relationships, and actionable ideas for Baltimore
- Site visits and cultural immersion were described as “transformational” and “strategy-shaping”
- Key themes emerged: identity-affirming learning, youth-led planning, and cross-sector collaboration
Check out the mini-documentary capturing the essence of the 2025 Opening Plenary
March 2025
Learning Circles
From March to June 2025, BCYF hosted Learning Circles—an 8-session, cohort-based experience that brought together Baltimore City youth development leaders for collaborative problem-solving, knowledge exchange, and strategy building. Participants engaged in one of three targeted learning tracks: Nonprofit Infrastructure Bootcamp, Youth Development Best Practices, and Storytelling for Change.
Designed as peer-powered spaces, Learning Circles emphasized interactive dialogue over lecture, encouraging leaders to share insights, ask tough questions, and co-develop solutions to real organizational challenges. Participants explored topics like youth-centered design, nonprofit compliance, storytelling strategy, and sustainable growth. Across all tracks, the program elevated lived experience and emphasized equity, practicality, and collective wisdom.
The Learning Circles reinforced BCYF’s commitment to building a thriving, connected ecosystem of youth-focused organizations ready to lead systemic change in Baltimore.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 86% reported collaborative opportunities; 89% saw active sharing of resources and strategies
- 70% offered or received support from peers during sessions
- Participants gained insights on:
- Compliance and organizational systems
- Youth engagement and values
- Storytelling for donors and stakeholders
Emerging trends
- High demand for peer-led learning formats
- Growing emphasis on youth voice and advisory structures
- Continued interest in strategic storytelling as a capacity-building tool
Participant Reflections
When BCYF asked participants if they feel more equipped to strengthen their organization after completing the Learning Circle series, here’s a sample of what folks shared:
“Yes! There is so much information that I learned on how to make sure my organization had a solid foundation to continue to grow. What’s more helpful is I have an action plan to get there and a calendar that keeps me on track and compliant.”
– Nonprofit Infrastructure Learning Circle participant
“Yes, I do. As my organization’s grant writer, storytelling is at the heart of my work. These learning circles have helped me move beyond simply narrating our history or outcomes — they’ve taught me how to tell stories that truly reflect the impact we have on our target population.”
— Echoes of Change Learning Circle participant
“Yes. I have a deeper understanding of the YPQA which has turned our assessments into powerful tools as opposed to a requirement to check off for a funder.”
— Best Practices in Youth Development Learning Circle participant
Nonprofit Infrastructure
Participants learned the essential pillars of nonprofit success, from governance and compliance to operations and leadership development. Participants strengthened their infrastructure, created actionable strategies, and gained practical tools for long-term sustainability.
Facilitator: Alysia Lee, Baltimore Children & Youth Fund
Echoes of Change/Storytelling
Participants learned how to create a storytelling culture that amplifies their organizational narrative across all facets of work, including grant writing, fundraising, marketing, and beyond. Participants crafted stories utilizing these techniques.
Facilitator: Mothyna James-Brightful, MeRise, LLC
Best Practices in Youth Development
Participants learned what best practices for youth development are, strategies for incorporating best practices into their program/organization, and were able to measure their progress.
Facilitator: Dana Carr, The Creative Impact Group
March 19: Black Women Leaders
On March 2025, BCYF hosted gather!—an intimate, in-person evening designed to uplift and connect Black women leaders in Baltimore’s youth development ecosystem. Held in an affirming and elegant setting, the event provided space for 15 invited leaders to share wisdom, build relationships, and generate community-rooted solutions.
With a focus on visibility, connection, and collective leadership, the evening included networking, keynote reflections, and facilitated roundtable dialogue. Participants spoke candidly about the challenges and power of leading in community, with conversations centered on youth voice, sustainability, and transformative leadership practices.
The event was intentionally designed as a safe, culturally responsive space—one that honored identity, fostered authenticity, and encouraged vulnerability. Evaluation data and participant reflections confirm that the gathering was not only meaningful, but deeply needed. Leaders left with renewed energy, new partnerships, and actionable ideas for future collaboration. In alignment with BCYF’s strategic vision, gather! March reinforced that Baltimore’s transformation is being led by those most rooted in community care, cultural wisdom, and justice.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 89% of attendees rated the event as Excellent; 0% reported any negative experience
- 79% gained new insight into youth development and the Youth Master Plan
- 95% built relationships they plan to continue
- 100% felt the space was safe, welcoming, and inclusive
- Participant reflections praised the focus on women’s leadership, youth voice, and actionable dialogue
- Suggestions for future topics included funding strategies, legal support, collaboration, and self-care
- Recommendations include offering retreat-style formats, integrating Youth Master Plan content, and increasing legal/technical assistance
April 2025
LAB #1: Akeelah and the Bee - Expanding Access to Arts & Dialogue
On April 5, 2025, BCYF hosted its first Learn & Build (LAB) event of the year at Baltimore Center Stage, centered on the powerful youth-centered production of Akeelah and the Bee. The event provided over 400 free tickets to Baltimore youth-serving nonprofit organizations, offering equitable access to a high-quality cultural experience. Attendees were invited not only to enjoy the performance but to participate in a post-show panel conversation with performers, reflecting on themes of resilience, identity, and youth voice.
The event was carefully designed to blend inspiration with impact. BCYF emphasized clear logistics, intentional outreach, and day-of support to ensure a smooth experience for both youth and adult participants. Feedback confirmed the event was meaningful, with participants expressing deep satisfaction and a sense of connection to BCYF’s mission. The LAB also strengthened BCYF’s partnerships with youth development organizations and highlighted the transformative potential of arts engagement.
Overall, LAB #1 modeled how thoughtful, arts-based events can catalyze learning and relationship-building across Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 100% of survey respondents rated the event as Very Satisfied
- 100% found the experience meaningful and aligned with BCYF’s mission
- 400+ tickets successfully distributed to youth-serving organizations
- High participation in the post-show performer conversation
- Logistics ran smoothly, with praise for BCYF’s on-site presence
Check Out Our Recap Video
May 2025
LAB #2: The Sankofa Children's Museum of African Cultures
BCYF’s Learn & Build (LAB) series continued with an immersive cultural experience at the Sankofa Children’s Museum of African Cultures, engaging over 80 youth, families, and staff from BCYF grantee organizations. This local field experience, rooted in heritage and hands-on learning, invited participants to explore African history, art, and culture in ways that nurtured both critical thinking and community connection.
The LAB was designed to support youth development through experiential learning—centering culture as a tool for empowerment. Youth and families participated in interactive exhibits and collaborative activities that emphasized themes of identity, leadership, and collective responsibility. The museum’s space allowed for open dialogue, reflection, and multi-generational engagement, fostering a sense of pride and shared vision for community-building.
This LAB event reflected BCYF’s commitment to equity-rooted, joy-centered learning. It elevated community voice, created space for relationship-building, and inspired participants to see themselves as stewards of change. Participants left feeling affirmed, energized, and more deeply connected to their cultural roots and one another.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 80+ youth and family participants from BCYF grantee organizations
- Hands-on cultural learning that emphasized collaboration and critical thinking
- High engagement reported in interactive museum activities and reflection sessions
- Strengthened connections among youth, caregivers, and organizational staff
- Positive participant feedback highlighted the affirming, joyful nature of the experience
- Opportunities for growth: Expand future LABs to more cultural institutions and include youth-led facilitation
- Alignment with LAB goals: Collaboration, experiential learning, and community-rooted leadership
Check out our recap video
May 21: Mentorship to Partnership
On May 28, 2025, BCYF hosted gather! May at Refocused Vegan, bringing together 25 grassroots and youth-serving leaders for an evening rooted in community, collaboration, and strategic visioning. Framed around the theme “Mentorship to Partnership,” the gathering was designed to deepen trust, strengthen relationships, and elevate shared leadership across the youth development ecosystem.
Co-hosted by Board Chair Larry C. Simmons and VP of Operations & Culture Sherrona Lawrence, the evening featured a swag and information exchange, a seated networking dinner, peer coaching in a Troika format, and a collective brainstorming session focused on youth-centered impact. Leaders exchanged resources, surfaced shared challenges, and generated concrete ideas to inform the Baltimore Youth Master Plan.
Participants affirmed the gathering’s inclusive and interactive spirit, describing it as both practical and powerful. Suggestions for future convenings included more structured facilitation, time-blocked agendas, and deeper dives into systemic topics such as partnership strategy and youth engagement. Overall, gather! May reinforced BCYF’s model of relational, equity-centered leadership and provided a springboard for future collaborative action.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 92% rated the event as Excellent or Good
- 77% reported forming relationships they intend to sustain
- 92% said the event fostered collaboration and inclusivity
- 20+ organizations represented at the event
- Key highlights: Troika peer coaching, networking dinner, collective brainstorming, swag/info exchange
- Participant feedback praised BCYF’s leadership: “I love BCYF—great job, EVERYONE!”
June 2025
June 3: Community Exhibition
On June 3, 2025, BCYF hosted the Community Exhibition, a vibrant and intergenerational gathering at Baltimore Unity Hall marking the conclusion of the six-month learning lab capacity-building initiative. Designed as a celebratory, science fair-style experience, the Exhibition brought together over 250 youth, grantees, community partners, and city leaders—including Mayor Brandon Scott—to honor the work of grassroots organizations advancing youth development in Baltimore.
The event featured interactive storytelling stations, nonprofit showcases, youth-led exhibits, and a hands-on gallery walk, providing a platform for learning, collaboration, and joyful exchange. A major highlight was the public launch of #bcreds, BCYF’s new online financial learning platform for nonprofit leaders, underscoring the Fund’s commitment to sustainability and real-time capacity building.
Feedback from 67 attendees affirmed the Exhibition’s impact: it fostered meaningful connections, surfaced powerful narratives, and strengthened cross-sector collaboration. With remarks like “amazing,” “joyful,” and “powerful,” participants described a space where community voice and leadership were fully visible. Opportunities to grow include expanding space for movement, youth presence, and accessible engagement tools. Still, the Exhibition stood as a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when Baltimore invests deeply in its grassroots leaders and youth-serving organizations.
Pulse Check: Outcomes at a Glance
- 300+ attendees, including Mayor Brandon Scott
- 100% positive satisfaction
- 91% made at least one new connection
- 90% said the gallery walk encouraged meaningful dialogue and collaboration
- 81% said they better understood Learning Lab accomplishments
- 96% felt the space was safe and welcoming
Key highlights
- Launch of #bcreds online learning platform
- Youth-led storytelling and nonprofit exhibitions
- Peer learning, high-energy atmosphere, and intergenerational dialogue
- More than 300 people attended the 2025 Community Exhibition.
