Workforce Wednesdays expands to include housing and resource navigation services at the UMB Community Engagement Center.
Photo: Lisa Rawlings, director of UMB Workforce Initiatives
The University of Maryland, Baltimore’s (UMB) Community Engagement Center is expanding its Workforce Wednesdays walk-in support sessions to better serve the needs of West Baltimore residents. Beginning this month, on the second Wednesday of each month from 2-5 p.m., job seekers can now access Housing and Resource Navigation services alongside employment support.
In partnership with United Way of Central Maryland, the center now offers walk-in access to Leezette Bethea, a housing and resource navigator and certified community resource specialist, who will be on-site monthly to help individuals address housing insecurity, food insecurity, and other urgent challenges.
When asked about the collaboration to support job seekers, Bethea said, "I am ready, willing, and able to help assist neighbors with resources during Workforce Wednesdays."
While United Way’s 211 Resource Navigation services have long been available by phone and appointment, this new walk-in model brings support directly into the community — making it easier for residents to get help when they need it most.
This enhancement reflects the UMB Office of Community and Civic Engagement’s (OCCE) commitment to meeting community-identified needs and providing holistic support to neighbors seeking stability and opportunity. Additionally, OCCE continues its partnership with the CASH Campaign of Maryland, offering financial wellness services funded by a grant from the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation. Through the CASH Campaign, neighbors can receive a confidential screening of 22 benefits, including food, phones, medication, and energy assistance.
Location: UMB Community Engagement Center
Time: 2-5 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month
Services Offered: Job seeker support, housing and resource navigation, financial wellness, community referrals
No appointment is needed for Workforce Wednesdays. For more information, visit the OCCE website or dial 211.
To get access to United Way 211 Resources outside of Workforce Wednesdays, visit uwcm.org/CEC211 or call 211 and select the prompt "If you live in Southwest Baltimore."
To schedule a benefits screening with the CASH Campaign of Maryland, visit bit.ly/4mEl0uh, email cec@cashmd.org, or call 410-541-5086.