Following the successful launch of its Community Action Lab earlier this year, the City of Baltimore is expanding the program to a second police district, giving more residents the opportunity to help lead neighborhood revitalization and public safety efforts.

Applications are now open for the second Community Action Lab cohort, which will serve residents, community partners, and small business owners in the Baltimore Police Department’s Southeastern District. The 12-week paid leadership program equips participants with practical skills in community development, violence prevention, environmental design, and neighborhood improvement.

Mayor Brandon M. Scott said the expansion builds on Baltimore’s broader efforts to engage residents as partners in improving public safety. From the press release:

“Baltimore’s historic progress in reducing homicides and nonfatal shootings would not be possible without residents working alongside government and law enforcement,” Scott said. “The Community Action Lab helps us build on this progress by empowering those who live and work in our communities to enact positive change and improve public safety.”

The City is investing $81,000 in the initiative, with 80 percent of the funding supporting community-led projects, participant stipends, and technical assistance. Baltimore officials hope to continue expanding the Community Action Lab to additional police districts in the future.

Applications for the Southeastern District cohort are open through August 2, with sessions scheduled to run from August 31 through November 20.

To learn more about this program, see previous Conduit Street coverage.