Open Society Baltimore (OSI)’s mission is to disrupt the long-standing legacy of structural racism in Baltimore by supporting powerful social change movements led by, and centering the needs, interests and voices of, historically marginalized communities and communities of color.

OSI’s Criminal and Juvenile Justice program seeks to reduce the use of incarceration and its social and economic costs without compromising public safety, and promote justice systems that are fair, are used as a last resort, and offer second chances. It supports advocacy, public education, research, grassroots organizing, litigation and demonstration projects that focus on reforming racial and social inequities at critical stages of the criminal and juvenile justice systems-from arrest to reentry into the community.

The Education and Youth Development program seeks to ensure that all student groups are fully included in schooling and other opportunities that prepare them for success in adulthood. Youth in Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) overwhelmingly experience the effects of concentrated and, most often, generational poverty, coupled with limited exposure to opportunities, which is compounded by discriminatory treatment in and out of school. For more information, email Education and Youth Development Program Specialist Jennifer Kim, jennifer.kim@opensocietyfoundations.org

The Addiction and Health Equity program seeks to generate and promote innovative ideas that improve health equity and lower the threshold to high-quality behavioral health services, reduce stigma, and support community engagement to improve public health in Baltimore.