Maryland Philanthropy Network invites you to join a variety of experts who will be sharing their insights into the issues providers supporting the developmental disability community are facing during the pandemic, what supports are available, and what gaps remain. 

The Baltimore Sun reports that the Maryland Transit Administration has “proposed to slash its bus service in the Baltimore region next year by 20% — eliminating 25 bus lines and reducing service on 12 others — due to falling fare revenue and reduced funding from other sources caused by the coronavirus pandemic.” Join us for a conversation with advocates about the cuts and possible alternatives, and to get an update on the advocacy work that is underway.

The Prenatal to Five Impact Collaborative is a peer group focused on learning together about the needs of pregnant women and families with children up to age 5 and how to best support them. This meeting will discuss advocacy and the roles philanthropy can play in systems change work. We’ll be hearing from Sara Watson who authored the Bainum Family Foundation Brief: “Creating Change Through Policy Advocacy”. We’ll also be hearing from Beth Morrow and Laura Weeldreyer about Maryland Family Network’s Early Childhood legislative priorities.

As the District reopens schools, Maryland is also experiencing its first-ever virtual legislative session. Legislation around digital equity, childcare, and the overturn of the veto for the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future are critical for the future of Maryland’s children. Maryland Philanthropy Network is pleased to host Melissa Broome, Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs, for a conversation about City Schools’ legislative priorities for the 2021 state legislative session and the state plan around funding.