The Claude C. Thornton Foundation April eNews
- CCTF Board
- Apr 8
- 9 min read
Updated: Apr 9
Greeting's Friends and Family,
April feels like a fresh start. It is a reminder that no matter how things are going, growth is always possible. This season brings change as we see trees, flowers, and grass start to bloom again. Let's take time to wind down, reflect, and think about what we want to nurture or change in our own lives.
This month also brings Earth Day. Let's get out there and show our planet how much we care and how much we want to push for change. Let's show how community engagement and environmental justice go hand in hand. Whether that is through small daily changes or greater efforts, every action matters. Also, remember to Save the Day for our Annual Greater Baltimore Climate Summit on Nov. 12, 2026.
As part of our ongoing effort to economically support our communities, we are excited to share several resources this month that you can use or distribute within your communities as we continue building pathways for growth, opportunity, and collective impact.
Thank you for always being a part of the CCTF community.
With love and gratitude,
The CCTF Team
Highlights
Opportunity Highlight: Environmental Justice in Tech Fellowship (Summer 2026)
Rooted Futures Lab is back with its Environmental Justice in Tech Fellowship for Summer 2026. This is a paid, remote, part-time opportunity open to individuals around the world who are passionate about building a future centered on both human and planetary well-being.
Applications are open now through April 30, making this a great opportunity for those interested in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and equity.
To learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/eKP_NvM4
Support the Clarinet Scholarship Initiative
The Claude C. Thornton Foundation has partnered with Coppin State University for the next five years to award $50,000 in scholarships to students in financial need. Our foundation’s commitment is $25,000, and we invite you to support our goal of raising the remaining $25,000 over the next five years to continue uplifting excellence in Baltimore communities.
Scan the QR code to make a donation today and help us continue a powerful legacy of educational excellence.
Upcoming Events
REGISTER TODAY for the 2026 HBCU CCE Conference:
Good Trouble – Continuing the Legacy and Purpose of HBCUs.
Join Transform Mid-Atlantic, Bowie State University, and campus partners for this powerful event taking place April 15 (virtual, 5:00–7:00 PM) and April 16 (in person, 9:00 AM–3:30 PM) at Bowie State University, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Kaye Wise Whitehead.
Rooted in the spirit of “good trouble,” this conference uplifts the legacy of HBCUs as leaders in civic engagement, culture, and community change.
Beekeeping & Weather: Community Science Showcase
Join a unique, interactive experience exploring the connection between weather patterns and pollinator health. This community-focused event brings together local beekeepers, educators, and residents for a day of learning, networking, and hands-on discovery.
Enjoy refreshments, engaging presentations, and a “Bee Hive Dive” while connecting with others passionate about environmental impact.
Event Details:
Sunday, April 19th 11am-2pm
Piedmont Learning Center, 5517 Piedmont Ave. Baltimore, MD 21207
Point of Contact: shamara.collins@morgan.edu
Building Greater Baltimore Momentum Series
Senior Administrative Manager of The Johns Hopkins Institute for Planetary Health, Chris Marshall will overview how to safeguard health on a rapidly changing planet.
This presentation juxtaposes human and ecological health, introduces the nine planetary boundaries, aligns climate change with the detriment of decades of public health gains.
2026 Service Symposium - 250 & Beyond: Our American Story
Join a nationwide celebration of service through a FREE live broadcast you can attend from anywhere. This landmark hybrid symposium brings people together across the country to honor the power of service and community impact.
As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, this event is a moment to reflect on our past, highlight the impact of service today, and inspire the next 250 years of civic engagement.
Event Details:
Date: April 24, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM (EDT)
Location: Virtual (accessible nationwide)
Cost: Free live broadcast
Who Should Attend:
This event is for students, educators, nonprofit leaders, volunteers, civic leaders, and anyone who is passionate about service, education, and making a meaningful impact in their community.
2026 National Conference for College Women Student Leaders (NCCWSL)
Join a transformative leadership experience designed to empower college womxn and gender non-conforming students from across the nation. This conference creates a welcoming space to build leadership skills, connect with peers, and gain inspiration to drive meaningful change on campus and in your community.
Through engaging workshops, hands-on activities, and networking opportunities, attendees are challenged to grow as leaders and leave with tools that extend far beyond the conference experience.
New this year, registration includes a DC Tour Experience, giving participants the opportunity to explore Washington, D.C. as part of their journey while connecting with a powerful network of changemakers.
Event Details:
Dates: May 27 – May 30, 2026
Location: College Park, Maryland
Audience: Undergraduate students in student affairs and leadership spaces
Experience: Workshops, networking, leadership development, and DC Tour Experience
Sign Design Arts Event
Get creative and make your mark at this fun, family-friendly arts event. Participants will design and contribute to a community weather station sign while enjoying a relaxed, hands-on creative environment. All art supplies are provided, and lunch will be available.
Event Details:
Saturday, May 30th 1pm-4pm
Carrie Murray Nature Center, 1901 Ridgetop Rd Baltimore, MD 21207
Point of Contact: docar13@morgan.edu
All ages are welcome, so bring your friends and family and come ready to create and connect.
2026 IMET Open House
Dive into the world of marine science and explore cool tech at this open house you won't want to miss! Have you ever wondered what happens in that unique looking building with the tent-like roof at the Inner Harbor? Science happens!
The Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) opens its doors for a free Open House on Saturday, May 2, 11am - 3pm. Enjoy hands-on science activities for all ages, meet our scientists, and discover important marine research happening throughout the harbor and the Chesapeake Bay! Join us for an unforgettable adventure into marine science and ignite your curiosity!
Located at Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) is a joint University System of Maryland institute that conducts research to help protect and restore coastal marine systems and their watersheds and improve human health. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), the University of Maryland Baltimore, and the University of Maryland Baltimore County are partner universities.
Resources
Blossoms Blooming Mentorship Program
This video is just a glimpse into our annual Blossoms Brunch award ceremony, where we collectively honor community mentors who have poured into our professional, personal, and emotional growth.
The Blossoms Blooming Mentorship Program empowers young women to reach their full potential through academic and professional mentorship and etiquette training. Last year we launched our group mentoring experience, grounded in discussion topics such as mindset, relationships and partnerships, career mobility, professional opportunities, femininity and more.
We have our annual brunch coming up on February 22 so stay tuned for updates. If you would like to learn more about this mentorship program, please click this link to inquire. To keep up to date with Blossoms Blooming follow us on Instagram and/or contact us via email at cari@thecctfoundation.org for any questions or concerns.
We offer parent coaching?
Did you know we offer parent coaching? Parents play a key role in shaping their child’s success and influencing school leadership decisions. Our coaching helps you advocate with confidence, stay informed, and clearly define what matters most for your child while building strong partnerships with schools.
What to look for in strong school leaders:
Commitment to student achievement and whole-child success
Transparent and consistent communication
Long-term dedication to the district
Experience leading diverse school systems
Collaboration with teachers, staff, and families
Accountability with measurable outcomes
Respect for community voice and engagement
Ways parents can get involved:
Stay informed about superintendent search timelines and processes
Research candidates and review their experience
Attend community forums and engagement sessions
Complete surveys thoughtfully and honestly
Share your priorities with school board members and advisory groups
Start at the school level:
Connect with principals and assistant principals
Build relationships with teachers and instructional leaders
Engage with school improvement teams and advisory councils
When families and schools work together, decisions better reflect the real needs of students and communities. You’ve got this! If you would like to schedule a free coaching session with us, please use this link to schedule a session.
Parents, We’re Here for YOU!
From navigating the school system to supporting your child’s mental health and behavior, parenting comes with a lot of challenges and you don’t have to do it alone.
Led by Autrese Thornton, a multi-decade special educator, school administrator, and nonprofit manager, The Claude C. Thornton Foundation’s Parent Advocacy & Coaching Program is here to listen, guide, and empower you with the tools and resources you need.
Tell us: What areas of education, mental health, or behavior do you need the most support with?
Email us at athornton@thecctfoundation.org
Regulate your nervous system this summer with Kellan!
Kellan is more than a Parent Coach she supports Black mothers who feel stuck in survival mode, carrying the invisible weight of overwhelm, self-doubt, and emotional labor.
This 8-week program is designed to help mamas reset, regulate, and reclaim their peace.
Have questions? Email Kellan directly!
Job Opportunities
As part of our commitment to economically supporting our community, we are excited to share these job opportunities with our network. We hope these workforce resources help you strengthen your friends, families and neighborhoods.
Now Hiring: Assistant Vice President, Academic Engagement & Partnerships
Baltimore City Community College is hiring for an Assistant Vice President of Academic Engagement & Partnerships at its main campus in West Baltimore. This full-time leadership role focuses on strengthening student success initiatives, building community and educational partnerships, and expanding academic pathways for students.
The position works closely with academic leadership to support student engagement, transfer opportunities, dual enrollment programs, and co-curricular services such as tutoring and retention efforts.
Key Details:
Position: Assistant Vice President, Academic Engagement & Partnerships
Location: Main Campus (Liberty Heights), Baltimore, MD
Salary: $115,000 – $125,000 annually
Requirement: Master’s degree with experience in higher education leadership
This is a great opportunity for experienced professionals passionate about student success, partnerships, and advancing educational access in Baltimore.
Click here for more details- or to apply for more staff positions at BCCC
Explore Careers in Higher Education with Mid-Atlantic HERC
Mid-Atlantic HERC connects job seekers to a wide range of higher education opportunities across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. From faculty and leadership roles to administrative and support positions, their job board offers options for all experience levels.
They also provide helpful tools like resume support, webinars, and job alerts to guide your search. If you are looking to grow your career in higher education, this is a great place to start.
Looking for more opportunities?
Explore more openings across the state at your convenience. Visit Maryland Jobs Quick Search to see which industries are currently hiring and discover positions that match your skills and interests.
Grant Opportunities
As part of our commitment to economically supporting our community, we are excited to share these grant opportunities with our network. We hope these resources help you access funding, grow your projects, and strengthen the impact of your work.
Looking Out Foundation – Grants to Charities
The Looking Out Foundation provides grant funding to support nonprofit organizations working to create meaningful impact in their communities. With a focus on evolving needs, this grant supports programs that uplift underserved populations and address critical social issues.
Key Criteria:
Open to tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
Focus areas include: LGBTQIA2S+ support, disadvantaged youth, public health, women, the arts, food insecurity, and the unhoused
Typical grant range: $5,000 – $25,000
Does not fund individuals, scholarships, endowments, fundraising events, or annual appeals
Important Dates:
May funding cycle: Apply by January 15
November funding cycle: Apply by July 1
This is a strong opportunity for organizations looking to expand their impact and support underserved communities.
To apply for funding, please fill out this form.
The Foundation Grants Maryland website provides a centralized hub of diverse grant opportunities available to individuals, nonprofits, and community organizations across the state.
The Community Foundation offers a variety of grant programs designed to achieve specific goals within the community. Some opportunities reflect the charitable vision of local donors and Community Partners, while others are intended to spark new ideas and engage new audiences to drive community change. Click the link below to learn more about each grant’s timeline, deadlines, eligibility, and examples of previously funded projects.
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis
The Courage Project celebrates everyday courage in America by honoring individuals and organizations who uplift our communities and strengthen our shared future. This initiative recognizes those whose actions reflect the foundational values of our nation and inspire others to stand for what matters.
The Civic Participation Program strengthens democracy by supporting year-round efforts that encourage active engagement in civic life. This initiative focuses on on-the-ground organizing that empowers communities to participate fully beyond election-season activities. Please note that the program does not fund academic research, technology development, book projects, individual fellowships, or conferences unrelated to direct civic organizing.
Volunteer & Community Support Opportunities
Volunteer with the Maryland Food Bank
Volunteering with the Maryland Food Bank is a meaningful way to show up for your neighbors and make a real difference. By giving a few hours of your time whether sorting food, packing boxes, or helping with distribution you help ensure families have access to the nourishment they need. Every act of service matters, and your kindness helps strengthen our community, one meal at a time.
Volunteer Opportunities with JustServe
Looking for ways to give back? JustServe is a community-driven platform that helps you find volunteer opportunities in your area or even remotely. Whether you are looking to support local events, donate your time, or get involved in ongoing service projects, this hub makes it easy to connect with causes that matter to you.
What you can do:
Search for local volunteer opportunities by location
Explore remote and flexible service options
Discover upcoming events and community needs
Get involved with nonprofits and local initiatives
This is a great resource for individuals, families, and groups looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.
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