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Special Focus Learning Circles
Special Focus Learning Circles offer deeper, fast-paced learning for participants who prefer concentrated skill-building. These multi-week intensives create momentum for collaboration, practical application, and stronger connections across Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
As part of the learning lab, the Special Focus strengthens Baltimore’s Youth Master Plan by equipping leaders with practical tools to advance equity, innovation, and sustainability in youth-serving programs.
Part of BCYF’s the learning lab: building skills, connection, and power for Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
Impact from Past Events
Past Learning Circles showed clear impact:
- 100% participant satisfaction (83% very satisfied).
- 91% built three or more new professional connections.
- Participants reported greater confidence in nonprofit infrastructure, storytelling, and equity-centered practice.
- “Being able to walk through forms step-by-step gave me real insight into how to structure and sustain a nonprofit.” — Infrastructure Track Participant
Contact & Social
Who It’s For
Grassroots leaders, nonprofit staff, youth workers, board members, and community partners seeking to build new skills in youth engagement, athletics, or branding.
Event Details
- Dates: February 5, 12, and 19, 2026 (Special Focus)
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: Baltimore (in-person with some virtual options)
- Format: Weekly, concentrated sessions across specialized tracks
- Cost/Registration Info: Free to attend; stipends available
What You’ll Gain
- Clarity: Acquire new strategies in branding, youth engagement, and new skills.
- Connection: Build trusted peer networks while learning alongside other youth-serving leaders.
- Inspiration: Explore fresh tools and ideas that strengthen Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
- Momentum: Accelerate your growth through focused, weekly sessions with immediate applications.
Agenda Snapshot
Participants select one track:
- Inclusive Youth Engagement — Tools designed to enhance youth program effectiveness. Develop cultural competency and apply proven strategies that strengthen learning environments and youth engagement.
- Branding — Crash course in nonprofit brand identity and visual storytelling. Learn to create consistent, compelling narratives that build trust, outreach, and fundraising success.
Speakers / Facilitators
Sessions facilitated by experienced practitioners in equity-centered youth engagement and communications. Full list to be announced.
Supports Available
- Free registration for all participants
- Stipends for grassroots organizations
- Session materials and take-home resources
