Baltimore City is taking a hands-on approach to public safety by investing directly in residents.

Mayor Brandon Scott has announced the Community Action Lab, a new initiative designed to equip residents, small business owners, and community partners with the tools to help lead neighborhood-level safety and revitalization efforts.

The program reflects a growing trend in local government: treating public safety not just as a policing function, but as a shared, community-driven responsibility.

About the Program

The Community Action Lab is a paid, 12-week leadership program that will bring together residents from Baltimore’s Northern District to build practical skills and apply them directly in their communities.

Participants will receive training in:

• community organizing and leadership
• violence prevention strategies
• environmental design and neighborhood improvement
• grant writing and project planning
• data-informed problem solving

Participants will design and carry out grant-funded neighborhood improvement projects, applying what they learn in real time.

The City is investing $81,000 into the program, with 80% of funds going directly to community-based efforts, including stipends and project support. While the initial cohort will focus on the Northern District, there are plans to expand the program to additional areas following the first 12-week cycle.

Applications are open through May 3, with program sessions running from May 18 through August 7.

Local governments are constantly exploring ways to expand public safety strategies beyond traditional enforcement. Programs like Baltimore’s Community Action Lab demonstrates that by pairing training with funding and real-world application, public safety efforts can move beyond engagement and into implementation. Learn More