#United States #Baltimore #Community Impact #Baltimore Community Foundation #Neighborhood Spotlight Awards

Baltimore Community Foundation Announces 2025 Neighborhood Spotlight Award Winners

The Baltimore Community Foundation (BCF) recently revealed the recipients of its 2025 Neighborhood Spotlight Awards, which honor grassroots leaders who are making significant impacts in their neighborhoods through community-driven initiatives. BCF, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering philanthropy and building vibrant local communities, presents these awards as part of its commitment to supporting residents who tirelessly work to enhance the quality of life in Baltimore.

Recognizing Local Heroes

The Neighborhood Spotlight Awards are part of BCF's 50th Anniversary Neighborhoods grant program. This initiative not only acknowledges the unsung heroes—block captains, community coordinators, and advocates—but also aims to amplify their efforts through grants. Each awardee is granted $5,000 to donate to a Baltimore-area nonprofit of their choice, significantly bolstering community support and resources.

Dr. Crystal Harden-Lindsey, BCF's Vice President of Community Impact, expressed the foundation's belief in empowering resident leadership as essential for stronger neighborhoods. “With the Neighborhood Spotlight Awards, we celebrate the everyday heroes who are creating a better Baltimore,” said Harden-Lindsey, emphasizing the honorees' commitment to fostering vibrant communities.

Meet the Awardees

The 2025 Neighborhood Spotlight Awardees embody the spirit of community-focused transformation:

• - Bria Evans: As Operations Manager at Requity, Bria spearheaded initiatives across four Baltimore high schools, established a youth-led catering business, and provided over 3,000 free meals to families through her 'We All Eat Wednesdays' program, addressing food insecurity while cultivating culinary skills.

• - Arrealia Gavins: Co-founder of the Realia Institute, Arrealia has created a home-based hub in McElderry Park that offers free tutoring, youth mentoring, and wellness support, acting as a