Saint Luke's Youth Center (SLYC)

Mission: SLYC is a collaborative of West Baltimore families working together to provide youth with critical resources, life-enriching experiences, and a safety net of support.

We believe that neighborhood residents should be the driving force for change in their communities. SLYC nurtures our community's inherent strengths, unlocking its potential by creating safe, dynamic, and supportive environments where children, caregivers, and neighbors thrive together.

Values: Our work is driven by the principles of asset-based, community-led initiatives, focusing on collaboration, inclusivity, and resilience. We believe in building from within the community, meaning the families, youth, and local leaders are central to our decision-making and planning processes. We emphasize the importance of shared leadership, collective responsibility, and creating opportunities for personal and communal growth.

Whom We Serve: We primarily serve the children and caregivers from West Baltimore City neighborhoods, many of whom face systemic challenges related to poverty, trauma, and limited access to resources. Our programs are designed to leverage the strength and knowledge that already exists within the community to address these challenges.

Programs and Initiatives: SLYC runs various programs, including an after-school club, summer camp, family and community engagement initiatives, and leadership development opportunities. We also work closely with partners like local schools, churches, and community organizations to support mental health, case management, and educational opportunities. All of our efforts aim to institutionalize West Baltimore residents' power as the designers, developers, and deliverers of services within their community.