Breaking Down Barriers for Young Men of Color in Greater Baltimore

Young Men United provides long-term, holistic support and resources to students and families to break down barriers to opportunity, access, and earning power.

The Challenge:

As a result of systemic and institutional barriers, many young men of color lack access to the networks, supportive mentors, financial resources, post-secondary preparedness programs, and pre-professional experiences that lead to academic and career success. 

• Only 23% of Black men and 28% of Hispanic men in the Baltimore area have a bachelor’s degree or higher versus 47% of White men.
• In Baltimore City,  58%  of  White residents are employed in management,  business,  science, and arts occupations versus 29% of Black residents. 
• Nationally, Black men have the lowest four-year college completion rate of all groups (only 40%) and are the most likely to leave without a degree (41%). 

At United Way, we know that education is the foundation of future success-and strong individuals and families make for strong communities. Young Men United will support its participants throughout their journeys, as well as connect them and their families with critical resources like housing and food assistance, counseling services, financial education, and more.