Maryland Announces $20M Grant for Youth Programs

Maryland is investing millions in its future workforce. Governor Wes Moore announced a major new grant package on Tuesday.

The $20 million investment targets education and mentorship programs. It aims to help thousands of young people across the state.

Grant Details and Program Partners

The funding is a joint effort. It combines state money with matching funds from Arnold Ventures.

This is the final round of the Maryland Partnership for Proven Programs. The program’s total investment now reaches $40 million. The initiative focuses on expanding programs with a proven record of success.

According to Reuters, evidence-based programs are crucial for economic mobility. This partnership is a model for other states to follow.

Focus on Community Colleges and Mentoring

The grant money is split into two key areas. A large portion, $14.4 million, goes to four community colleges.

These colleges will replicate the Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) model. This program offers comprehensive support to low-income students. It has a strong history of dramatically improving graduation rates.

Another $5.6 million will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters. This funding will help clear a significant backlog of young people waiting for mentors. The focus will be on supporting young men’s mental health and career pathways.

The program will expand into nine counties. This includes Baltimore City, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel counties.

This significant investment underscores Maryland’s commitment to evidence-based solutions for youth development. The Maryland youth grant is a strategic effort to build a stronger, more skilled future generation.

Info at your fingertips

Who is receiving the grant money?

Four community colleges and Big Brothers Big Sisters are the recipients. The colleges include Harford, Prince George’s, Wor-Wic, and the Community College of Baltimore County.

What is the ASAP program?

ASAP is a proven national model for community college support. It provides academic, personal, and financial help to low-income students to help them graduate.

How many youth will this grant help?

The funding is expected to benefit over 3,000 young people and students across Maryland. This includes those in college and youth seeking mentors.

Why is mentorship a focus of this grant?

There is a large backlog of youth, primarily boys, waiting for mentors. Mentorship is proven to support mental health and prevent violence.

What is the total amount invested in this partnership?

With this final round, the Maryland Partnership for Proven Programs has invested a total of $40 million in proven youth initiatives across the state.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, BBC News, The Baltimore Sun