In a recent City Council Hearing held on March 27, 2025, the Education, Youth, and Older Adults Committee of Baltimore focused on a pressing issue: the need for a comprehensive youth master plan. As discussions unfolded under the warm glow of city hall lights, council members expressed concern over the lack of structured activities for the city’s youth, highlighting the dangers of idle time for children.

One council member passionately articulated the urgency of the situation, stating, “While we're making these tremendous investments, we still see some of our children just out in the street… looking for something to do.” This sentiment resonated throughout the meeting, as officials acknowledged that despite significant financial commitments to youth programs, a cohesive strategy was still missing.

The proposed youth master plan aims to center the voices of young people in its development, ensuring that their needs and priorities shape the initiatives. A timeline for this ambitious project was discussed, with expectations set for a completion period of 18 months to two years, contingent on maintaining momentum. The plan is set to kick off this fall with training sessions for adult leaders, focusing on dismantling adultism and fostering a collaborative environment where youth can lead the conversation.

Council members emphasized the importance of this initiative being distinctly “Baltimore’s youth plan,” tailored to the unique needs of the community. The commitment to involving various stakeholders in the planning process was underscored, with hopes that this collaborative approach would pave the way for a more engaged and empowered youth population.

As the meeting transitioned to public testimony, the anticipation was palpable. Council members expressed gratitude for the efforts of all involved, recognizing that the success of the youth master plan hinges on collective action and a genuine commitment to listening to the voices of Baltimore’s young people. The discussions at this hearing mark a pivotal step toward addressing the challenges faced by the city’s youth, with the promise of a brighter, more structured future on the horizon.