News Summary
Since taking the helm in 2016, Franklyn Baker has transformed United Way of Central Maryland by focusing on equity, diversity, and community engagement. His leadership has led to significant revenue growth, the launch of new family centers, and increased staff diversity. Notably, United Way received a historic $20 million donation from MacKenzie Scott, affirming its mission to strengthen communities. Baker’s commitment is evident in enhanced services for homelessness prevention and educational initiatives, ensuring support reaches those in need across central Maryland.
Baltimore, Maryland – Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland, has successfully steered the organization to new heights since his appointment in 2016, focusing on equity, diversity, and community engagement. Under his leadership, United Way has made commendable strides in improving its culture and increasing its impact within the community, resulting in substantial growth in revenue, the number of people served, and innovative programs.
During Baker’s tenure, United Way has expanded its services to include enhanced homelessness prevention and family stability initiatives. Notable developments include the launch of two new Family Centers, which provide affordable childcare and early childhood education in Columbia and Poppleton. Baker’s emphasis on collaborative partnerships has further amplified the voices and power of community leaders and residents, ultimately aimed at strengthening families and neighborhoods across central Maryland.
In a landmark achievement for the organization, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott awarded United Way a historic $20 million unrestricted donation in 2020, marking the largest single gift in the organization’s 100-year history. Baker also led efforts that surpassed a $20 million fundraising goal for United Way’s 100th Anniversary Campaign, solidifying the organization’s role as a leader in philanthropy and community support.
Baker brings nearly 30 years of diverse experience in non-profit organizations to his role. Prior to joining United Way, he held executive positions at Greenpeace USA and Volunteers of America Chesapeake. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Howard University and a master’s in nonprofit administration from the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. His commitment to community service is evident in his involvement with various nonprofit boards, including Baltimore’s Promise and the Maryland Access to Justice Commission. He currently serves on United Way Worldwide’s Network Advisory Council.
Under Baker’s guidance, United Way has seen a significant increase in staff diversity, with the current makeup being a majority BIPOC staff and 48% BIPOC representation on the board, up from 19% in 2016. The organization’s focus has expanded to address systemic challenges faced by the community, including education, economic advancement, housing, and health. United Way collaborates with multiple community partners to enhance its capacity for positive social impact.
In addition to increasing equity and inclusion within the organization, Baker has also implemented the 30|30 Experience, a virtual empathy-building program designed to give participants a glimpse into the challenges faced by low-income households. This initiative further emphasizes the organization’s commitment to understanding and addressing community needs on a deeper level.
Baker’s leadership has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being recognized on the Most Admired CEOs List and Maryland’s Power 100 List by The Daily Record multiple times. Other awards include the Community Partner in Excellence Award from the American Red Cross and recognition as a Black Marylander to Watch by the Baltimore Sun.
Outside of his professional commitments, Franklyn Baker is married to his wife, Michell, and they share a 22-year-old daughter named Gabriell. His personal interests include sports, reading, and swimming.
As United Way of Central Maryland continues to evolve under Franklyn Baker’s leadership, the organization remains dedicated to fostering a community built on equity, diversity, and a collaborative spirit, ensuring that all residents of central Maryland have access to the resources they need to thrive.
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Additional Resources
- Baltimore Magazine: Franklyn Baker
- The Daily Record: Franklyn Baker
- Baltimore Positive: Franklyn Baker
- AFRO: Franklyn Baker Named New Head
- WPOC: Small Business Spotlight – Franklyn Baker
- Wikipedia: United Way
- Google Search: Franklyn Baker
- Google Scholar: Franklyn Baker
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Franklyn Baker
- Google News: Franklyn Baker
