FAQ: West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation and LifeBridge Health Community Initiatives

What is the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation and what does it do?

The West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation is a nonprofit organization linked to LifeBridge Health that manages and awards funding to address community needs such as workforce development, youth mentoring, food access, and population health in West Baltimore.

How is the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation funded?

The foundation is funded through the Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission, which provides resources to address community health and development needs in the West Baltimore area.

What is The Factory: A West Baltimore Opportunity Center?

The Factory is an opportunity center opened by the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation that serves as home to multiple nonprofit organizations providing resources and support for the local community.

What is Kurt Sommer’s professional background before leading the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation?

Prior to his current role, Kurt was Director of the Baltimore Integration Partnership, focused on economic inclusion, and held positions in public policy, community development, and research with Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Baltimore Housing, and the Brookings Institution.

What is David Nevins’ professional background and current role?

David Nevins is president & CEO of Nevins & Associates, a strategic communications company, with over 30 years of experience in marketing, public relations, and community relations, including previous roles at Towson University, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic.

What types of organizations does Nevins & Associates serve?

Nevins & Associates serves a diverse client base including healthcare organizations, professional service firms, finance companies, not-for-profits, state agencies, technology companies, real estate developers, and political campaigns.

How can people connect with Kurt Sommer and David Nevins?

People can connect with Kurt Sommer and David Nevins on LinkedIn for more information and professional networking.

What educational background does Kurt Sommer have?

Kurt Sommer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Washington College and a Master of Community Planning degree from the University of Maryland College Park.

What community leadership roles has David Nevins held?

David Nevins has served as Past President of the Center Club Board of Governors, former Chairman of the University System of Maryland Board of Regents, chaired the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission and Maryland Higher Education Loan Corporation, and served as President of both Jewish National Fund and Towson Business Association.