The C.I.V.I.C. Baltimore Initiative will add value to The Justice Thurgood Marshall Center (JTMC) at P.S. 103 by bringing a blend of applied academic research, youth engagement, violence intervention programming, health advocacy, and professional development education in the area of ethical public leadership to the beloved community of West Baltimore, MD.
A dynamic speaker series applied gun violence intervention research, juvenile diversion programming, and student-centered social justice education are just a few exciting aspects of this multifaceted initiative, which will transform the JTMC into a forum where solutions addressing the systemic challenges confronting Baltimore can be advanced in partnership with, for, and by West Baltimore community leaders.
As we navigate the intricacies of our initiatives, it's imperative to acknowledge that success transcends mere recruitment numbers or quantitative metrics. Instead, we must place empathy at the forefront—a cornerstone of our approach. Under the guidance of Prof. Stephen B. Thomas, PhD, the esteemed founding director of the Maryland Center for Health Equity, they will bring forth bold and innovative ideas to PS103. The nationally recognized Health Advocates In-Reach and Research (HAIR) Network has seamlessly integrated into the Judge Alexander Williams Jr. Center for Education, Justice, and Ethics. Their overarching objective is to cultivate "health extenders" by harnessing the transformative potential of Black barbershops and salons, turning them into trusted hubs for health promotion and disease prevention. Their engagements with barbers and stylists transcend transactional interactions; they entail fostering relationships grounded in trust and mutual respect.
Related Resources:
Faculty Profile
The C.I.V.I.C. Baltimore Initiative at The Justice Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center
