More in the Middle

More In the Middle is a wealth building initiative of Associated Black Charities and its Collaborative Partners that aims to close the wealth gaps in Maryland and to strengthen the economic competitiveness of the state and region.

In spite of gains over the recent decades, differences in income, employment, educational attainment, housing and business ownership rates persist between African American and White communities at a national and local level.  Published by Associated Black Charities, The Dashboard Report highlights the wealth gaps between the African American and White middle class in Baltimore.

These wealth gaps have lead to a serious leakage of assets: growing families and college graduates leaving cities such as Baltimore and taking with them the talent and economic assets that could enhance the city. Unless we fail to stop this leakage, and tap into the potential of existing residents, the result will be a socially and economically poorer city and region.

The More in the Middle Initiative seeks to increase economic assets in communities through strategic interventions focused on five core investment areas:

• Homeownership and Foreclosure Prevention
• Workforce Development/ Career Training and Advancement
• Higher Education: College Readiness and Access
• Business and Economic Development
• Asset Building and Financial Literacy

These investment areas are designed to retain, grow, and attract “More in the Middle”-more middle income residents who will help grow the economy of the region and spread their economic gains across the state.  For example, in Baltimore city, with a population nearly two thirds African American, this strategy will result in a greater African American middle class with increased levels of educational attainment, homeownership, business development opportunities, and employment of low, middle, and high-skilled workers.  Through the retention, growth and attraction of an African American middle class, Baltimore would experience an economic renaissance that would significantly alter its economy, workforce and socioeconomic conditions.  In other regions, with different demographics, the linchpin population may vary, but the economic outcomes would be similar-a more vibrant and economically competitive region!

In each investment area, Associated Black Charities works with a vast array of Collaborative Partners that include businesses, nonprofits, foundations, neighborhood associations and others who care about a growing, thriving and economically robust and competitive Baltimore City and region.

Partner with us today and make an investment in change to improve the economic outcomes for Baltimore and the region! Read more