Dear Friends, Partners, Colleagues, and Supporters,
It is with deep and competing emotions that we provide this final report of OSI-Baltimore’s activities. We are saddened that the office is closing and we will no longer have the honor of working beside our many valued partners who are striving to make Baltimore a better place. At the same time, we are immensely proud of the profound impact the organization has had on the social movements and communities across Baltimore.
Throughout OSI-Baltimore’s 25-year presence in Baltimore, our goal has been to create and foster a more equitable, just, and inclusive community for all residents, supporting them to grow and thrive without societal and historical constraints. OSI-Baltimore staff— current staff and every one of the more than 70 people who have been employed over 25 years – have an intense commitment to and pride in our city. We have felt privileged to be the stewards of resources that fueled the work of our partners and resulted in transformative change. We have invested in, supported, and collaborated with a remarkable group of skilled and tenacious advocates who have inspired and motivated us. We are proud to have been a part of OSI-Baltimore’s indelible and positive impact on Baltimore.
As the remaining staff, we implemented a closure strategy envisioned and launched by OSI-Baltimore Director Danelle Torain before she departed at the end of April. We felt a deep sense of responsibility to manage the final months with integrity and fidelity to the values of the organization. We were humbled to be in a position to play this critical role and grateful for the grace and support we received from the community during this period.
A section of this report reflects our history and impact, including examples of accomplishments. In addition, it includes a list of all organizations that received grants, a list of the social entrepreneurs selected as Community Fellows, and acknowledgment of the many people who supported the work over the years. These organizations and individuals are OSI-Baltimore’s lasting legacy. Although the work is far from done, we are confident that the roots of progressive change are deep and broad, and the progress toward social justice will not be thwarted. We look forward to seeing the many individuals, organizations, and movements we have supported continue to flourish and build on the legacy for years to come!
With gratitude,
Tracy Brown, Michael Camlin, Pamela King, Priscilla Newton
OSI-Baltimore Staff
