What is it's working progress?
The program was founded by a Baltimore native who saw firsthand the difficulties young people face transitioning from school to adulthood. After excelling in the Ingenuity Project at Roland Park Middle and graduating from Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, he noticed that neither he nor his peers were adequately prepared for the realities of the "real world." Driven by this realization, he spent years developing a curriculum that bridges these gaps, drawing on his expertise in business operations, community organizing, mental health, and entrepreneurship.
The program first launched as a youth initiative in Harlem Park in 2022, where the curriculum was tested and proven effective. This experience highlighted the importance of deeper community engagement and collaboration with other organizations, leading him to pursue a community health worker license. In 2024, he expanded his work with youth through the Northwest Wellness Project, where he further refined his approach.
Understanding that many small businesses and community organizations are run by individuals or small teams with limited resources, he realized that his operational, communication, and project management skills could also fill critical gaps. By offering his services as a community consultant, he provides not only a scalable curriculum but also valuable support in structuring and optimizing programs, enabling them to increase their impact while minimizing risk. His modular approach allows him to enhance existing programs and services, making him a versatile and vital resource for community-based initiatives.
I am a work in progress,
I am a working to achieve progress,
I achieve progress through hard work!
Entering a year of Execution
As we approach the end of an incredibly full and rewarding year, I want to take a moment to reflect, share what’s ahead, and invite you to be part of the journey. This year has been filled with lessons, challenges, and milestones that have deepened my commitment to our community. As I process these experiences, I’m also shaping clear goals for the year ahead, ensuring that my energy is focused on impactful execution.
In 2025, my major initiatives will center on the following:
Reviving My Curriculum
With the support of partners like Empowerment Academy and Northwest Wellness Project, I’m bringing my youth program back to the community. This curriculum has been refined to equip young people with tools for growth and leadership, and I can’t wait to see its impact in action again.Building a Volunteer Network
A thriving community needs people willing to step in where there are gaps. I’m committed to building a network of dedicated volunteers who can strengthen and expand the reach of community services.Comprehensive Canvassing and Opportunity Analysis
I’ll be focusing on the North Avenue corridor, Harlem Park, and Park Heights, conducting thorough canvassing to better understand challenges, identify opportunities, and collaborate on solutions tailored to these neighborhoods.Advocacy and Education for Stewardship
I’ll continue advocating for good stewardship of land and business, helping residents and organizations maximize the potential of their resources while fostering long-term growth.Supporting Local Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship drives innovation and community resilience. I’m committed to helping local entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life, providing guidance, support, and connections to help them succeed.
These goals represent not only the culmination of what I’ve learned this year but also the next step forward in building something greater for our city.
If you’re interested in participating or learning more about how I’m approaching these goals, I’d love to hear from you. Collaboration is at the heart of everything I do, and together, we can create real and lasting change.
Let’s make the year ahead even more impactful. Thank you, as always, for your belief in this vision.
With gratitude,
Calvin Croxton
Current focus: Revised Curriculum
As we continue our journey to uplift and empower, I’m excited to share the next step in our mission: the return of my youth program and curriculum, refreshed and ready to make an even greater impact.
Over the past year, I’ve reflected deeply on how to better serve our community, and this curriculum is the result of those insights. It’s designed to give young people the tools they need to grow, lead, and thrive. From fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills to encouraging entrepreneurship and self-expression, the program provides a space where youth can explore their potential and chart their own path forward.
This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of incredible partners like the Empowerment Academy and Northwest Wellness Project, who share this vision of equipping the next generation for success. Together, we’re ensuring this program is rooted in the real-world needs and opportunities of our community.
But this is only the beginning. Community involvement is what makes this work thrive, and I want to invite you to learn more and connect with me. Whether you’re a parent, educator, organization, or simply someone who cares about building a stronger community, your voice and input are invaluable.
If you’re interested in hearing more about the curriculum, collaborating, or finding out how you can support this work, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Check outthe resources below and let’s connect and continue creating opportunities for growth and empowerment—together.