About ACDC Baltimore
The City of Baltimore has long grappled with numerous challenges, including abandoned structures, inadequate education, food deserts, declining life expectancy, unemployment, and widespread poverty. These persistent issues have hindered growth and stifled opportunities within local communities, leaving little room for hope or the possibility of building a brighter future for children. Far too many residents are unable to navigate the myriad obstacles in the city without resorting to desperate measures, often resulting in lives overshadowed by crime and division.
In 1997, a group of community-focused leaders came together with a bold plan to confront these harsh realities head-on. Motivated by a sense of duty, these servant leaders committed their time and talents to reversing the downward spiral affecting Baltimore’s neighborhoods.
Amid this effort, a promising new non-profit organization emerged in the Church Square Community of East Baltimore: the Ashland Community Development Corporation (operating as ACDC Baltimore). As a 501(c)(3) organization, ACDC Baltimore was founded with the mission to deliver high-quality community services aimed at addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by Baltimore residents and surrounding areas. Their vision is clear: to improve lives and contribute to a brighter, more resilient Baltimore.
Guided by a comprehensive approach, ACDC Baltimore focuses on five key areas, or “tracks,” which have greatly benefited the city and its residents since its inception. These tracks are:
- Housing
- Economic and Workforce Development
- Revitalization
- Education
- Health and Wellness
While these tracks are broad and ambitious, ACDC Baltimore remains undeterred, embracing the philosophy that collective effort makes even the most formidable challenges manageable.
In 2018, under new leadership and with a renewed sense of purpose, ACDC Baltimore adopted fresh ideas and expanded its vision. Recognizing that no individual or organization can succeed in isolation, ACDC began fostering collaborations with churches, schools, and businesses. By forging these alliances, the organization broadened its impact and strengthened its ability to serve Baltimore’s communities.
ACDC Baltimore takes pride in its ability to build effective teams and establish partnerships with individuals and organizations that share its vision of transforming the city and improving the lives of its residents. Together, they are working to reshape Baltimore and uplift its communities.
Join us as we strive to make a lasting, positive impact and continue our mission of Building Baltimore Better!
Track #1 - Housing Development Programs
Focus on acquiring land and properties to establish a portfolio for homeownership, businesses, and affordable housing. Efforts include reducing vacant properties and providing housing solutions for the homeless, seniors, and assisted living communities.
Track #2 - Economic and Workforce Development Programs
Promote economic growth and entrepreneurship, create employment opportunities within the community, and offer spaces for startup businesses. Support job readiness through licensing and certification programs in specialized fields.
Track #3 - Neighborhood Revitalization
Enhance the community’s appearance by restoring storefronts, upgrading common spaces, landscaping, clearing debris, and fostering a strong sense of pride in the area.
Track #4 - Educational Direct Services
Provide programs that support community re-education and skill development.
- After-School Programs: In partnership with 4-H, ACDC Baltimore delivers youth education, job readiness initiatives, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) training, among other learning opportunities.
Track #5 - Community Health & Wellness
Deliver health education and wellness resources to underserved populations within the ACDC Baltimore community.
- Partnership with UMD Extension: Programs include the Expanded Food and Nutritional Education Program and Community Garden Training, among other initiatives.
