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Learning Circles
BCYF’s Learning Circles are immersive, cohort-based series designed to build the capacity of Baltimore’s youth-serving leaders through equity-centered learning, peer exchange, and practical skill-building. The Learning Circles create space for grassroots and nonprofit partners to reflect, learn, and grow together.
Each series offers thematic tracks facilitated by experienced practitioners, combining expert knowledge, peer dialogue, and hands-on tools to strengthen Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
Learning Circles directly advance the YMP by:
- Building Capacity: Equipping organizations with practical tools for growth and compliance.
- Amplifying Youth Leadership: Incorporating frameworks for authentic youth voice.
- Expanding Equity & Access: Creating inclusive and healing-centered learning spaces.
- Fostering Collaboration: Building networks and partnerships that extend beyond the sessions.
Part of BCYF’s the learning lab: building skills, connection, and power for Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
Impact Highlights
- 2025 Learning Circles (3 tracks: Nonprofit Infrastructure, Best Practices in Youth Development, Storytelling):
- 52 participants.
- 100% positive satisfaction (83% very satisfied).
- Confidence in nonprofit infrastructure rose from 5% to 52% “very confident.”
- 91% made 3+ new professional connections.
- 68% planned future collaborations.
- Skills & Knowledge Gains:
- 77% increased organizational analysis skills.
- 71% improved peer learning.
- 64% strengthened problem-solving.
- 95% of storytelling participants said the skill would improve visibility and fundraising.
What You’ll Gain
- Practical Skills: From nonprofit infrastructure to youth engagement, participants leave with actionable strategies.
- Peer Learning: Build networks with colleagues facing similar challenges.
- Confidence: Structured, interactive sessions increase leaders’ readiness to apply new tools.
- Alignment: Each Circle reinforces the Youth Master Plan’s focus on leadership, learning, and support ecosystems.
How It Works
Learning Circles are offered in two formats — monthly tracks and a special focus weekly series in February, April, and May — giving participants options for the pace and depth of their learning.
- Monthly Tracks (Jan–June 2026): Six sessions held once a month, designed for leaders who want consistent learning over time. These sessions allow participants to reflect between gatherings, apply tools in practice, and return with new insights to share.
- Special Focus (Feb–May 2026): A three-week deep dive for participants who prefer concentrated learning. Each track meets weekly, creating momentum for faster skill-building, collaboration, and applied learning.
Supports Available
BCYF reduces barriers to participation by offering:
- Free registration for grassroots and nonprofit partners.
- Stipends for grassroots leaders and youth participants.
- Accessible scheduling (virtual and in-person options).
- Materials and resources provided for continued use.
Upcoming Opportunities (2026)
Monthly Learning Circles
January 15, February 12, March 19, June 2
Six monthly sessions designed for consistent growth and reflection across the year.
- Soul Rebels Professional Development Series
Four equity-focused, healing-centered professional development sessions. - Echoes of Change (Storytelling)
A continuing series to strengthen storytelling for advocacy, fundraising, and organizational culture.
Special Focus Learning Circles
February 5, 12 & 19, 2026
A three-week deep dive with tracks in:
- Inclusive Youth Engagement
- Branding
Voices from the Community
“Being able to walk through forms step-by-step gave me real insight into how to structure and sustain a nonprofit.” — Infrastructure Track Participant
“These sessions taught me how to tell stories that reflect our real impact—not just our history.” — Storytelling Track Participant
“We now have relationships with orgs doing similar work—we’re already setting up a joint project this fall.” — Learning Circles Participant
“This was my first Learning Circle and my expectations were blown away. It was a great experience—I couldn’t have done it any better!” — Learning Circles Participant
