Thread

For more than 20 years, Thread has been committed to radically transforming the social fabric of Baltimore to create a more deeply connected community where everyone thrives. Through courage and consistency we have learned that the key to Thread’s model is not just the connections we make, but the diversity of the humans who choose to build relationships with each other. By developing a strong network of individuals who accept and celebrate our differences, we are equipping the community–especially our young people–with the social capital needed to improve educational, economic, and health outcomes for everyone in our city.

Thread enrolls the lowest-performing ninth-grade students at the lowest-performing schools who face an abundance of challenges in and out of the classroom. We connect them with an intimate group of volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experiences to build relationships and support one another in achieving academic, professional and personal goals. Thread’s extensive network of programs and partnerships help our community overcome barriers, creating a layered system of support.

Before Covid, most of the world was unaware of the epidemic of social isolation impacting our cities and the powerful benefits to be found in connection. Over the years, a growing movement of scholars and like minded groups have offered evidence that shows the impact of connection. The economist Raj Chetty established that connections across lines of economic class are a key determinant in breaking the cycle of poverty. In Bowling Alone, political scientist Robert Putnam showed the need for spaces where individuals can gather to practice bridging and bonding across lines of difference. Thread creates this needed “third space,” equipping young people with the tools, skills, and resources needed to complete high school, pursue a post-high school pathway, achieve self-efficacy, and, ultimately, experience economic mobility.

Join us and get involved at www.thread.org.