The Work We Do in Community Engagement: Working for the Downtown Baltimore Family Alliance (DBFA)
The Downtown Baltimore Family Alliance (DBFA) works to empower families and connect communities throughout the city of Baltimore. Established in 2008 in an effort to organize local parents who had made the choice to raise their families in downtown Baltimore and its surrounding neighborhoods, the organization currently advocates for better public educational resources, out-of-school care options, public safety, and access to cultural experiences in downtown Baltimore.
The mission of DBFAsates, "Fueled by the belief that cities flourish when families thrive, DBFA's mission is to attract, retain, and support city families, by connecting communities and empowering families to advocate for great schools, safe streets, and vibrant neighborhoods - the three factors that matter most to families when deciding where to live." With that framework in place, DBFA hosts events, workshops, and seminars that connects families in downtown Baltimore to resources for making choices that support education goals, activities for quality family time, and lasting friendships. Through community outreach and engagement, DBFA has empowered more than "5,000 families to push for legislation, private investment, and public initiatives that prioritize the needs of city families."
Elizabeth Mount, a PhD candidate from S-CAR, was recently selected to oversee the major expansion effort designed to increase the organization's visibility and reach in the communities DBFA serves. In order to help accomplish this goal, Elizabeth started an initiative in her office space called Community Blend.
Speaking to Elizabeth recently, she described the Baltimore community space as, "A place where a mother with a baby can get out of her house and rejuvenate her sleep deprivation with a free cup of coffee, all without the stress of wondering if her baby will start crying. A mom can nurse and feel comfortable. A dad can bring his laptop and work from home while his toddler is interacting with other local children in the playroom. You can be a parent and an adult and relax a little. The playgroup provides and assists parents with an opportunity to network and develop supportive relationships. The space can be used for workshops and other private outreach events but the primary focus is for the families."
Elizabeth is also involved in other aspects of DBFA and services that the organization is involved with as she has a natural interest and awareness of her community and the challenges families experience.
While Elizabeth was a PhD student, she served as the Executive Director at the Center for the Study of Gender and Conflict at Mason's School of Conflict Analysis and Resolution. In addition to her research and advocacy efforts as part of the center, she served as a consultant for non-profit organizations and government agencies on a range of issues, including gender-based and community violence, gender equity, and women’s empowerment initiatives.
"I am thrilled to join DBFA in their vital work of improving opportunities for families to thrive in Baltimore. I am humbled to have the privilege to advocate for great schools, access to vibrant cultural experiences, and safe neighborhoods in the midst of the progressive changes taking place in the city." said Elizabeth.