Partners in Progress: Celebrating the Community Impact of Baltimore’s Key Contributors — A 40 for 40 Story
As the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore continues its mission to foster a thriving, dynamic urban environment, we celebrate the collaborative spirit and transformative impact of our esteemed partners. These organizations share our commitment to making Downtown Baltimore a vibrant hub for living, working, and investing.
In this series, we shine a spotlight on the influential businesses and partners who are driving positive change across our community. Their dedication to enhancing Baltimore’s landscape, supporting local initiatives, and shaping the future of our city is truly inspiring. Each partner plays a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of Downtown, embodying the values of innovation, community engagement, and shared progress.
Join us as we explore the remarkable contributions of these key players and recognize their efforts in making Baltimore a better place for all.
1. PNC Bank
PNC Bank has been a cornerstone of Downtown Baltimore, enriching the community through its longstanding support and dedication to enhancing the urban experience.
PNC Bank has been a committed supporter of Downtown Baltimore since the founding of the Downtown Partnership. With a legacy of nearly 160 years, PNC Bank values the city’s vibrant harbor, cultural institutions, and dynamic entertainment district. They relish the area’s blend of scenic views, lively sports venues, and diverse dining options, which together create a unique and engaging urban environment.
PNC’s partnership extends to the world of sports through their sponsorship of the Dynamic “Birdland Murals” at Camden Yards. This initiative celebrates female civic leaders and artists in the Baltimore community, adding a vibrant and meaningful touch to one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Their support for events like Light City, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and the Bromo Art Walk further highlights their enthusiasm for celebrating Downtown Baltimore’s cultural vibrancy.
Additionally, PNC Bank’s sponsorship of the Pratt Street Market over two seasons reflects their commitment to fostering local businesses and community spaces. The partnership with Downtown Partnership has played a significant role in creating a safer, more welcoming environment for employees and the broader downtown community, enhancing amenities and improving the urban atmosphere.
With a focus on financial excellence and community engagement, PNC Bank continues to play a pivotal role in Downtown Baltimore, celebrating its dynamic essence and working towards a brighter future for the city.
2. Constellation
Constellation is deeply rooted in Baltimore, where local employees take pride in living and working in the heart of the city. The company’s commitment to Downtown Baltimore reflects its dedication to both the community and the mission of advancing a clean, carbon-free future.
A cherished memory for Constellation is celebrating the opening of the Power Up! exhibit at the Maryland Science Center. This event, held in partnership with the Ravens, underscores Constellation’s dedication to advancing clean energy and promoting sustainability.
For over a decade, Constellation has supported the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore. The Partnership’s ability to unite business and community leaders through impactful events and initiatives is highly valued. This collaboration helps create a vibrant environment where businesses and employees thrive.
Constellation’s focus on delivering low-carbon and no-carbon power solutions aligns with the city’s vision for a sustainable future. The company’s contributions, including being named a top innovator in nuclear-powered hydrogen production, demonstrate its ongoing commitment to Baltimore and its commitment to a resilient and dynamic urban landscape.
With its longstanding dedication to both sustainability and community engagement, Constellation remains a vital supporter of Baltimore’s growth and vitality.
3. Strategic Factory
Strategic Factory has transformed from a small quick-print shop into a major full-service enterprise, exemplifying its dedication to both business growth and community support in Baltimore.
Strategic Factory has been a proud supporter of Baltimore since its inception in 1999. What began as a small quick-print franchise has grown into a full-service enterprise with over 150 employees and 100,000 square feet of production space across three facilities in Owings Mills. The company has continually expanded its services in print, signage, branding, and marketing, reflecting its dedication to supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
In 2023, Strategic Factory officially became a supporter of the Downtown Partnership, joining its mission to enhance and support the city’s growth. The company’s involvement extends to prominent projects and partnerships, including CFG Bank Arena, Lexington Market, Harbor Place, the Maryland Cycling Classic, and the Baltimore Ravens.
A memorable highlight for Strategic Factory is the tale of Shelonda Stokes and Lauren Hamilton at the Maryland Real Estate Convention in Las Vegas. Their unexpected success in a corn hole tournament, making it to the final round and winning the crowd’s admiration, embodies the spirit of Baltimore and the resilience of its people.
Strategic Factory’s commitment to community support is evident through its partnerships and charitable efforts with organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, the Baltimore County SPCA, and the Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge. The company actively participates in local business and community organizations, including the Baltimore City Chamber of Commerce and the Printing & Graphics Association Mid-Atlantic.
With a strong commitment to the city’s evolution and progress, Strategic Factory continues to be a vital advocate for Baltimore’s growth and prosperity.
4. Gross Mendelsohn
Gross Mendelsohn has been a pillar of support in Baltimore since 1960, blending deep-rooted values with innovative solutions to champion local businesses and families.
Gross Mendelsohn began in Baltimore in 1960 with a passion for supporting local business dreams and has since grown into a leading firm with a dedicated team of 140 professionals. Known for its commitment to creative solutions, strong ethics, and outstanding client service, Gross Mendelsohn has built its success on lasting relationships and a focus on internal growth.
Baltimore’s blend of tradition and innovation resonates with Gross Mendelsohn, particularly in its support of family-owned businesses that embody both legacy and modernity. The firm cherishes the vibrant energy of Downtown, with standout memories like the Ravens Super Bowl Parade in 2013, where employees joined the city’s celebration firsthand.
Gross Mendelsohn’s support of the Downtown Partnership, including initiatives like the BOOST Program, underscores its dedication to local entrepreneurship and community development. This partnership reflects their belief in empowering clients and investing in the future of Baltimore.
5. The Bozzuto Group
The Bozzuto Group has been creating vibrant and enriching communities in Baltimore since 1988, blending a deep commitment to integrity with a passion for building and managing exceptional living spaces.
The Bozzuto Group has been crafting exceptional living spaces and vibrant communities in Baltimore since 1988. As a diversified real estate company specializing in development, construction, property management, and homebuilding, Bozzuto’s commitment to integrity and quality is evident in every project. The company’s dedication to creating sanctuary for residents and enriching neighborhoods is driven by their core values of concern, creativity, passion, and perfection.
Bozzuto’s long-standing support of Downtown Partnership of Baltimore reflects their belief in the city’s potential. For nearly 40 years, Bozzuto has supported initiatives that help make downtown a safe and thriving environment for residents and retailers. Their involvement in events such as the downtown car racing event exemplifies their enthusiasm for Baltimore’s energy and excitement.
With their social impact program, Rise by Bozzuto, the company actively contributes to addressing homelessness, supporting youth development, and fostering social and environmental impact. Recent initiatives, including Bozzuto Rebuild Day and Bozzuto Earth Day Cleanup, highlight their dedication to making a tangible difference in the communities they serve.
For Bozzuto, Downtown Baltimore represents more than just a location—it’s home. The company’s deep-rooted connection to the city and its ongoing support for Downtown Partnership of Baltimore underscore their commitment to the area’s growth and success.
6. Mercy Medical Center
Mercy Medical Center stands as a beacon of compassionate care and community commitment in Downtown Baltimore, embodying the values of the Sisters of Mercy through their extensive outreach and dedication to enhancing the city’s health and vitality.
Founded in 1874 by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Medical Center has been an integral part of Downtown Baltimore for nearly 150 years. The hospital remains steadfast in its commitment to providing excellent clinical and residential services within a compassionate community. From its historic roots at the corner of Calvert and Saratoga, Mercy has grown into one of the city’s largest employers, with a dedicated team of physicians, nurses, and staff working tirelessly to offer high-quality care to all, particularly the poor and underserved.
Mercy’s support for Downtown Partnership spans over 30 years, underscoring its role in maintaining a vibrant, safe, and thriving downtown. Sister Helen Amos, RSM, Executive Chair of the Board of Trustees at Mercy Health Services, has been a key figure in this partnership since 1992. As a member of both the Board of Directors of the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and the Downtown Management Authority, Sister Helen has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and supporting initiatives that benefit the downtown community.
Mercy’s notable contributions include the 2010 opening of the Mary Catherine Bunting Center, a significant investment in the city’s future. The center highlights Mercy’s ongoing commitment to expanding clinical programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, Mercy’s involvement in projects like the Preston Gardens Revitalization/ Renovation exemplifies their dedication to enhancing green spaces and creating welcoming environments for city residents and visitors alike.
Through its partnership with the Downtown Partnership, Mercy Medical Center helps maintain a clean, safe environment in the downtown area, aligning with their mission of justice and care for the vulnerable. By supporting initiatives that assist the homeless and underserved populations, Mercy continues to embody its values and contribute to the well-being of Downtown Baltimore.
7. T. Rowe Price
T. Rowe Price exemplifies its core values through a profound commitment to community involvement and philanthropy, driven by the collective efforts of its associates and the impactful work of the T. Rowe Price Foundation.
In 2023 alone, T. Rowe Price associates donated an impressive $15.6 million through workplace giving and contributed over 32,000 volunteer hours. Their dedication extends beyond financial contributions, with associates serving on the boards of 440 nonprofits and leading numerous local initiatives. The T. Rowe Price Foundation, established in 1981, has given over $182.3 million in direct grants and matching gift contributions, reflecting the firm’s long-standing commitment to community investment and positive change.
The Foundation’s approach to philanthropy is centered on responsiveness, collaboration, and inclusivity. T. Rowe Price employs Trust-Based Philanthropy principles, focusing on transparency, feedback, and unrestricted community investments. A notable example of their commitment is a $1.3 million investment over three years to address underinvestment in West Baltimore, highlighting their dedication to supporting equitable solutions and enriching lives.
T. Rowe Price’s associates actively contribute to local nonprofits, whether through tutoring students with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Chesapeake, feeding the hungry, or serving on nonprofit boards. This generosity of spirit is a cornerstone of their culture, demonstrating the firm’s belief in making a meaningful difference in the communities where they live and work.
By partnering with nonprofits and supporting a variety of charitable organizations, T. Rowe Price continues to foster strong community ties and promote positive change, embodying their values through both action and investment.
8. Market Center Merchants Association
Market Center Merchants Association is dedicated to revitalizing Baltimore’s historic Market Center neighborhood, blending rich heritage with modern development to create a thriving, inclusive community.
Market Center Merchants Association is pivotal in revitalizing Baltimore’s historic Market Center neighborhood. Once the city’s premier retail district, Market Center is now undergoing a significant transformation, focusing on equitable development and preserving the area’s unique character while fostering new opportunities for growth.
The Market Center Community Development Corporation leads this revitalization effort, emphasizing a holistic approach that tackles multiple issues such as safety, cleanliness, and business development. Their guiding principles—holistic, compassionate, effective, sustainable, accountable, and inclusive—ensure that the development benefits all community members and maintains the neighborhood’s vibrant history.
The recently approved Market Center Strategic Revitalization Plan outlines a vision for a dynamic mixed-use area featuring residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. With a robust transit network, historic landmarks like Lexington Market, and growing arts and entertainment venues, Market Center is set to become a key hub in downtown Baltimore.
The Market Center Merchants Association values its partnership with the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, which has been crucial in supporting the neighborhood’s transformation. Their collaboration helps create a welcoming environment, aligning with our mission to revitalize Market Center while respecting its rich heritage.
9. Whiting-Turner
Whiting-Turner Contracting Company exemplifies leadership in construction and community support, making significant contributions to Baltimore’s skyline and its local fabric.
Whiting-Turner Contracting Company stands as a cornerstone in the construction industry, renowned for its role as one of the largest employee-owned general contractors and construction management firms in the United States. Headquartered in Baltimore, Whiting-Turner boasts a nationwide presence with over 50 locations and consistently ranks among the Top 10 contractors in Engineering News-Record’s annual Top 400 list. With an impressive annual revenue of upwards of $8 billion and a workforce exceeding 4,000 employees, Whiting-Turner is a major player in both the national and local construction landscapes.
As a committed partner in Baltimore’s growth, Whiting-Turner is spearheading the development of Under Armour’s new global headquarters in the Port Covington neighborhood. This landmark project, featuring a 280,000-square-foot cross-laminated mass timber office building, retail outlets, and an NCAA-regulation track and field facility, underscores the firm’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in construction. Scheduled for completion in early 2025, this multi-billion-dollar development will serve as a vibrant hub for both business and community engagement.
Whiting-Turner’s commitment to Baltimore extends beyond major projects. The company actively engages in local community initiatives and philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes and organizations that enhance the city’s well-being. Their contributions and involvement reflect their dedication to fostering positive change and building strong community ties.
By investing in transformative projects and supporting local initiatives, Whiting-Turner exemplifies a corporate ethos that values both growth and community impact, making significant strides in shaping Baltimore’s future.
10. Verizon
Verizon is a pivotal force in Baltimore, dedicated to enhancing the community through technology, education, and philanthropic efforts.
Verizon has a long-standing commitment to supporting Baltimore through a range of impactful initiatives. The company plays a significant role in bridging the digital divide by expanding high-speed internet access and providing essential technology to underserved communities, ensuring more residents can participate fully in the digital age.
Verizon’s dedication to education is evident through programs like Verizon Innovative Learning, which equips local schools with cutting-edge technology and resources to enhance student learning and prepare them for future success. In addition, Verizon actively engages with the Baltimore community through philanthropic efforts and partnerships with local nonprofits, contributing to various causes such as economic development and public health.
Their continued investment in Baltimore underscores their commitment to fostering positive change and supporting the city’s growth and resilience.
