As we commemorate 40 years of dedication to the growth and vitality of Downtown Baltimore, we’re proud to shine a light on the partnerships that have been instrumental in shaping our city’s future.
Through our ongoing 40 for 40 campaign, we’re featuring 40 partners—both new and long-standing—who continue to inspire change, foster innovation, and help us build a brighter, more inclusive community. These partners, with their diverse expertise and deep commitment to the city, have been essential to our journey as an organization who places immense value on public-private partnerships. Whether they’ve been with us for years, or are newer to our network, each plays a vital role in Downtown Baltimore’s transformation and success.
Join us as we highlight ten of these exceptional organizations, whose ongoing dedication has left an indelible mark on the future of our neighborhood.
1. University of Maryland Medical System
As one of Maryland’s leading healthcare providers, the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) plays a critical role in advancing medical care, discovery, and education. UMMS, through its flagship academic campus and 11 hospitals statewide, brings cutting-edge research and innovative healthcare solutions to urban, suburban, and rural communities alike. As one of the largest private employers in Maryland, with over 29,000 employees, UMMS’s dedication to compassionate, high-quality care is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Baltimore and beyond.
Their partnership with the University of Maryland’s Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Social Work, and Dentistry furthers their mission of shaping the future of healthcare by training the next generation of physicians and professionals. Through their relentless pursuit of discovery and innovation, UMMS is a vital partner in our collective efforts to inspire change and influence the future of our community.
2. M&T Bank
M&T Bank is a proud supporter of Baltimore, offering customers and businesses an extensive network of branches, ATMs, and online services. With over 165 years of financial strength and a tradition of reliability, M&T remains committed to fostering long-term relationships with its customers and communities. As a bank with deep local roots, it combines the capabilities of a large institution with the care of a community-focused bank.
M&T has a long-standing history of positively impacting the communities where its customers and employees live and work. Programs like The M&T Charitable Foundation, the Community Sponsorship Program, and the Amplify Fund have provided financial support to civic, cultural, health, and human services initiatives. Notably, the Weaver Awards, in collaboration with the Aspen Institute’s Weave: The Social Fabric Project, offer $5,000 grants to Baltimore residents fostering community connection and trust. This initiative empowers individuals and small groups to strengthen their neighborhoods and build lasting relationships.
M&T Bank has also been a proud partner of the Baltimore Ravens since 2003, contributing over $1 million to support community-driven initiatives. In 2024, M&T launched the “All 4 for the Flock” campaign featuring Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers as an ambassador, emphasizing their commitment to building a stronger community through events, engagement, and charitable giving.
For more details on M&T Bank’s community involvement and partnership with the Ravens, visit their website at the link below.
3. Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities is dedicated to improving lives across Baltimore through a wide range of impactful services. With a team of over 2,000 staff members, 8,000 volunteers, and 10,000 donors, they reach hundreds of thousands of individuals and families each year, embodying the spirit of community at its best.
Their comprehensive support addresses critical needs in Baltimore, including:
- Support for Vulnerable Populations: Offering addiction treatment, mental health counseling, and supportive housing to stabilize lives and promote recovery.
- Senior Services: Providing affordable housing and life care options to help older adults maintain their dignity and independence.
- Immigrant Assistance: Through the Esperanza Center, aiding immigrants with legal, healthcare, and integration services to foster a more inclusive community.
- Economic Empowerment: Delivering job training, educational opportunities, and employment services to help individuals achieve financial independence and contribute to economic stability.
- Family Support: Strengthening family units through services related to family preservation, adoption, and child protection, promoting healthier communities.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with other organizations to amplify their impact and address complex social issues effectively.
Catholic Charities’ commitment to dignity, compassion, and excellence drives their mission to support and uplift Baltimore’s diverse community. By meeting immediate needs and working towards long-term solutions, they help create a more inclusive and resilient city.
To learn more about their work and how you can get involved, visit their website at the link below.
4. SECU
SECU is Maryland’s largest credit union, committed to enhancing the financial well-being of its members and communities across the state. Founded in 1951 in a small office in downtown Baltimore, SECU has grown from serving just 33 members to supporting over 260,000 members with more than $5 billion in assets. With 23 financial centers and over 50,000 free ATMs, SECU offers comprehensive financial services and cutting-edge digital banking solutions.
Through the SECU MD Foundation, the credit union strengthens Maryland by empowering access to education, supporting health and wellness, and driving community development.
The Foundation has awarded over $1 million in scholarships and provided over $150,000 in grants and in-kind donations to organizations like the Special Olympics and Kennedy Krieger Institute. SECU employees also volunteer up to 12 hours per quarter, continuing their “People Helping People” mission. SECU’s Kindness Campaign, launched during the pandemic, has now become a statewide movement, recording over 280,000 acts of kindness and supporting local communities through volunteerism and donations.
To learn more about SECU’s community initiatives and banking services, visit their website at the link below.
5. Arrow Parking
A family-owned and operated business, Arrow Parking has proudly served the Baltimore community for over 50 years. As one of the last remaining locally-owned parking operators, Arrow Parking blends its expertise in real estate and parking management to provide efficient and customer-focused service. Their facilities are known for being clean, well-lit, and staffed by friendly personnel. With convenient locations like their garage at 210 W. Baltimore Street, across from the CFG Bank Arena and near major attractions such as Oriole Park and the Convention Center, Arrow Parking offers reliable options for both event-goers and everyday parking needs.
6. Vicinity Energy
Vicinity Energy supplies efficient steam, hot water, and chilled water to over 193 buildings in Baltimore, encompassing 35 million square feet of conditioned space. With 28 miles of underground infrastructure, the system prevents 71,361 tons of carbon emissions annually.
Focused on a clean energy future, Vicinity Energy is dedicated to achieving net zero carbon emissions through innovative technologies and a commitment to sustainability. By collaborating with local communities, customers, and government bodies, Vicinity Energy supports ambitious emissions reduction goals and fosters a greener environment for Baltimore.
Vicinity Energy stands as a key partner in advancing Baltimore’s sustainability and environmental stewardship.
7. Cross Street Partners
Cross Street Partners is a vertically integrated real estate company dedicated to revitalizing communities through innovative urban mixed-use developments. Specializing in adaptive reuse of historic properties, brownfield remediation, sustainable design, and transit-oriented development, Cross Street Partners focuses on building vibrant neighborhoods that foster growth and connection.
With extensive experience in real estate development, construction, property management, and leasing, Cross Street Partners continues the legacy of Struever Bros. Eccles & Rouse. Since its founding in 2010, the company has been at the forefront of community-focused projects in Baltimore, Cambridge, Winston-Salem, Durham, and Dayton.
One of the standout projects is the Choice Neighborhoods Baltimore – Perkins Somerset Oldtown (PSO) initiative. This transformative project aims to revitalize a 244-acre district in Baltimore by leveraging $30 million in federal funding and over $540 million in combined investments. The PSO Transformation Plan focuses on creating a sustainable, mixed-income community that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding area, enhancing resident pride and fostering new connections between the neighborhood and key city landmarks.
Cross Street Partners continues to drive meaningful change, building on a legacy of excellence and commitment to community development.
8. MCB Real Estate
MCB Real Estate is a leading institutional investment management firm specializing in a diverse portfolio of industrial, office, retail, multifamily, mixed-use, and select special-use assets. Known for its deep expertise in market analysis, project execution, and operational management, MCB Real Estate delivers strategic investment solutions that maximize value and minimize risk.
A hallmark project for MCB is the transformative revitalization of Harborplace, Baltimore’s iconic waterfront destination. Under new ownership, MCB is reimagining Harborplace to reflect Baltimore’s spirit and heritage. This ambitious project aims to establish Harborplace as a world-class venue for cuisine, commerce, and culture, integrating seven core pillars: economic sustainability, waterfront connectivity, accessibility, local focus, resilience, safety, and equity.
MCB Real Estate’s vision for Harborplace will create a vibrant, inclusive community hub that celebrates Baltimore’s unique character while enhancing its global appeal. Through innovative design and community partnerships, MCB is committed to making Harborplace a landmark destination for residents and visitors alike.
9. CFG Bank
CFG Bank stands as a pillar of support for Baltimore, offering a range of personalized banking services with a deep commitment to local development. Known for its focus on small business support, CFG Bank provides tailored financial solutions to help local enterprises thrive, fostering economic growth in the region.
The bank’s dedication extends beyond banking, as CFG Bank actively engages in community involvement. Through charitable contributions, educational programs, and support for local nonprofits, CFG Bank enriches Baltimore’s social and cultural fabric. Their employee volunteerism further strengthens their connection to the community, reflecting a commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.
CFG Bank’s unwavering support for Baltimore highlights its role in enhancing the city’s vitality and ensuring a prosperous future for its residents.
10. First National Bank
First National Bank (FNB) is dedicated to enhancing Baltimore’s vitality through active community involvement and corporate responsibility. With a strong belief in improving the quality of life for its customers and residents, FNB engages deeply with the local community through a range of impactful initiatives.
FNB supports Baltimore through significant financial contributions, sponsorships, and charitable donations to organizations such as chambers of commerce, schools, charities, and community service agencies. Their commitment extends to providing vital resources for economic development, including financial education workshops, home ownership programs, and low-income housing tax credits.
The bank’s involvement goes beyond financial support. FNB’s employees are deeply engaged in community service, dedicating tens of thousands of hours annually to various causes. This includes serving on boards, participating in volunteer activities, and organizing drives for essential supplies. The bank also recognizes outstanding service through its Community Spirit Awards, making significant donations to charities chosen by award recipients.
FNB’s commitment to Baltimore is a cornerstone of its operations, driving positive change and fostering a stronger, more vibrant community.
As we celebrate 40 years of commitment to the growth and prosperity of Downtown Baltimore, we are honored to highlight the remarkable contributions of our partners.
These ten organizations—each with their unique strengths and deep ties to our city—play a pivotal role in shaping a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient Baltimore.
From advancing healthcare and education to fostering economic development and sustainability, their unwavering dedication helps drive positive change across our community. Their support not only fuels immediate impact but also lays the foundation for long-term success and growth.
Together, we look forward to continuing this journey, building on the strong partnerships that have been instrumental in our shared vision for Baltimore’s future. Join us in celebrating these exceptional partners and the transformative impact they have on our beloved city.
