THE MAGIC OF THE THREE “T’S” AND BEYOND 

THE MAGIC OF THE THREE “T’S” AND BEYOND 

The sponsors of LBC ’26 Philanthropy and Community Leadership retreat, Prescott HR, United Way of Central Maryland, and Community Assistance Network, live and breathe service.  As LBC ’26 considers their roles in the community and the legacies they wish to live and leave, we reflect on why and how we can be effective community leaders, givers, and advocates. 

 

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP 

Community leadership and service create real pathways for impact. Through Kimberly Prescott’s (LBC ’25) work as a Commissioner on the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights and board service with Leadership Howard County, the Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, she has seen firsthand how policy, advocacy, and engaged leadership shape equitable workplaces and stronger communities. It’s not just about having a seat at the table; it’s about using your voice to influence outcomes that matter. 

  • Start local. Community associations, nonprofit boards, and advisory groups are often looking for committed leaders. 
  • Be clear on what you bring. Your professional skills can translate directly into meaningful impact. 
  • Raise your hand. Apply for boards and commissions, and don’t wait until you feel “ready.” 

 

PHILANTHROPY 

Community Assistance Network (CAN) is an example of the many dedicated nonprofits serving our community.  CAN works in partnership with the community to develop, operate, and support programs that reduce vulnerability and empower personal growth, dignity, stability, and self-sufficiency among people in Baltimore County experiencing economic challenges. Philanthropic giving plays a critical role in sustaining these nonprofit efforts by helping each organization expand access to necessary supplies and services. Through philanthropic partnerships, nonprofits are also able to innovate, respond quickly to emerging community needs, and create more equitable access to resources for individuals and families across Baltimore County. 

Ways People Can Give 

  • Treasure: Make a financial contribution to support supplies and services that directly impact vulnerable households.   
  • Talent: Share professional skills, expertise, or specialized services that help strengthen CAN’s programs, operations, outreach, and long-term community impact.  
  • Time: Volunteer individually or as a group. In the case of CAN, you might support pantry operations, food distributions, special events, outreach initiatives, and neighbor-centered services throughout Baltimore County. Contact Carla Schroyer, LBC’25, cschroyer@canconnects.org 

 

ADVOCACY 

Policy change is a powerful way to break down longstanding barriers and strengthen lives, communities, and our economy. 

The United Way of Central Maryland’s Public Policy team analyzes the effects of legislation and policies on individuals and communities and helps guide policy formation to expand equity, opportunity, and access for all. Supported by a board-level Public Policy Committee, they advocate for needed investments, government action, and community empowerment, and help amplify community voices for change. 

During the 2026 Maryland legislative session, UWCM and its advocates celebrated several meaningful policy wins. 

  • More affordable child care: $20 million added to expand the Child Care Scholarship Program, helping thousands of children come off the waitlist and prioritizing early‑education workers  
  • Stronger child safety, less red tape: Centralized background checks for childcare providers are now law, a multi‑year win that improves safety while easing administrative burden. 
  • Greater support for students and families: $11 million secured for rental assistance for parents with children enrolled in area Community Schools 

You can exercise your advocacy muscles, too. 

  • Advocate for Alice alongside UWCM and help create more sustainable solutions for individual and family success. To join UWCM in this advocacy work, sign up for VoterVoice to get alerts, track issues, and contact your elected officials in just a few clicks: https://www.votervoice.net/UWCMD/Surveys/11655/Respond  
  • Share your voice. Talk to nonprofit leaders who work on causes you care about and ask how you can help. 

 

Share your successes and your challenges with LBC! LBC staff can facilitate introductions for board placement, volunteer opportunities, events to engage in, and more. View a list of some of the many nonprofits where LBC alumni work here: https://www.leadbaltimore.org/2022/12/14/baltimore-area-nonprofits-led-by-lbc-alumni/. Contact LBC at info@leadbaltimore.org for assistance.