WJZ News Baltimore Children and Youth Fund receives donations to help organizations thrive

BALTIMORE – Throughout the month of August, participating businesses are donating a percentage of their proceeds to the Baltimore Children and Youth Fund.

“I lived it,” said Lonnie Walker, founder and CEO of Joy Baltimore. “And because I lived it, it’s my goal and my desire to give back.”

After growing up in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neighborhood, Walker has dedicated his life to helping youth create better futures for themselves.

“I’ve been a therapeutic foster parent for 20-plus years. I raised five young men,” Walker said.

Walker is the founder and CEO of Joy Baltimore, a drop-in center and outreach program for runaway, homeless and displaced youth with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community… Read more