The University of Colorado Denver completed their first phase of an organizational network study to assess the ways in which the BIP partners collaborate with one another, as well as with local businesses, residents, and community-based organizations. Their analysis explores how larger systems and community factors in Baltimore relate to economic inclusion, how economic inclusion is implemented within an Anchor, and what enables or hinders economic inclusion efforts at the Anchor Institutions.

Anchor institutions in Baltimore are working to strengthen minority and local purchasing to create jobs and local economic opportunities. To improve internal policies and practices, Next Street, U3 Advisors, and ML Whelley, LLC are completing reports assessing the budgetary, policy, infrastructure, and planning processes at five Baltimore anchor institutions.  Participating institutions include LifeBridge Health, Maryland Institute College of Art, Notre Dame, University of Maryland Medical System, and the University of Maryland-Baltimore. Common findings, strengths, challenges and...

This report written by Tracey Rutnik and Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz at the Maryland Philanthropy Network in 2003 highlights how today's donors want an engaging philanthropic experience - and how despite the tight economy, donors are opening their checkbooks and their schedules to participate in giving circles.