The global pandemic undeniably established in the public mind that robust, affordable broadband service is part of our critical public infrastructure and an essential tool for our daily lives—as necessary as reliable electricity and clean water. Join Maryland Philanthropy Network to learn about the various aspects of the digital divide and the prospects for addressing it in Maryland and, particularly, in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. We’ll learn about the role of the new Office of Statewide Broadband; possibilities of building out broadband infrastructure and digital navigators; and gaps in public funding/possible investment opportunities for philanthropy.

Join Maryland Philanthropy Network's Education Funders Affinity Group to hear from leaders of Baltimore City Public Schools about strategies and emerging models they are engaging to improve older youth literacy. They will be joined by Theme Reads, a program at the Success for All Foundation in partnership with Johns Hopkins University, who will share information about their model for working with older students, what’s unique about working with high school students, how their work differs from traditional models, their work with Baltimore City Schools, and program outcomes. This session begins a series of upcoming conversations for the fall focusing on high school age youth.

Join the Community Investment Affinity Group to hear about the issues and implications of declining homeownership in Maryland and Baltimore, as well as efforts to blunt the pandemic’s impact on homeownership. Participants will leave with a greater understanding of what investments, connections, and elements are needed, where funder’s interests are, and possible roles for philanthropy.