Learn
LAB: Baltimore
Join us for LAB: Baltimore, an intergenerational citywide learning day focused on defining sustainability for Black and Brown grassroots organizations. This convening brings together youth leaders, grassroots partners, and community stakeholders to co-create strategies that confront systemic barriers and uplift long-term sustainability.
As part of the learning lab, this day strengthens Baltimore’s ecosystem by rooting sustainability in equity, community power, and lived experience.
We’ll publish a Learning Report after every conference, sharing what youth and community members said, what they learned, and how that learning turns into real actions for Baltimore’s Youth Master Plan.
Who It’s For
Youth, Grassroots organizations, nonprofit staff, community partners, funders, and policymakers committed to building equitable and lasting structures for Baltimore’s youth-serving ecosystem.
Impact from Past Events
LAB 2025, LAB: Akeelah and the Bee at Baltimore Center Stage event, set a strong precedent for impact:
- 100% of survey respondents were “Very Satisfied” with their experience.
- Participants reported the event was meaningful and aligned with collaboration, critical thinking, and experiential learning goals.
- The LAB successfully distributed over 400 tickets to youth-serving organizations, expanding equitable access to cultural experiences.
Contact & Social
Contact: info@bcyfund.org
Event Details
- Date: May 1, 2026
- Location: Baltimore, MD
- Format: In-person, intergenerational convening with learning sessions, discussions, and site visits
- Cost/Registration Info: Free to attend; youth stipends, meals, and accessibility supports provided by BCYF
What You’ll Gain
- Clarity: Define what sustainability means for Baltimore’s grassroots organizations, including key indicators and strategies.
- Connection: Build intergenerational trust and collaboration between youth, grassroots leaders, and city partners.
- Inspiration: Explore systemic opportunities and alternative models like cooperatives, solidarity economies, and base-building.
- Momentum: Contribute to a Baltimore Definition of Sustainability that informs policy, practice, and future investment.
Agenda Snapshot
- Morning: Systems mapping and discussions on the nonprofit industrial complex
- Midday: Landscape scan of Baltimore’s grassroots ecosystem and exploration of alternative sustainability models
- Afternoon: Visioning sessions to co-create Baltimore’s sustainability framework
- Closing: Reflection and commitment to collective next steps
Speakers / Facilitators
Facilitators will include Baltimore youth leaders, grassroots practitioners, and BCYF staff. Full list to be announced.
Supports Available
- Stipends for youth.
- Meals and refreshments provided
