We Are
A STRONG FOUNDATION
"Everyone deserves a strong foundation."
A Strong Foundation Inc. exists to restore dignity, security, and opportunity in underserved communities by revitalizing neighborhoods, reducing vacancy, and empowering youth through education, mentorship, and homeownership. We build strong foundations—physically, emotionally, and socially—for individuals and families to thrive.
Our Mission
Our Vision
We envision a Baltimore where every block is vibrant, every child is empowered, and every family has access to a safe, affordable home. Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and relentless love for our city, we are building a legacy of equity, opportunity, and transformation—one family, one house, one block at a time.
OUR STORY
Makayla Walker and Friend, 2015 holding original organization logo banner in front of the walker home.
A Strong Foundation Inc. was born from a powerful moment of awareness. During a drive through Baltimore, our founder’s daughter looked out at rows of vacant homes and asked, “Dad, everyone deserves a strong foundation, right?”
That single question sparked a mission — to restore dignity, safety, and pride in neighborhoods that have been overlooked for far too long.
Since our founding in January 2024, A Strong Foundation, Inc. (ASF) has grown from a vision into a movement that is transforming Baltimore communities one block, one home, and one family at a time. What began as a response to vacant properties and unsafe living conditions has evolved into a citywide effort to restore dignity, equity, and opportunity for the families who call Baltimore home. Through property rehabilitation and affordable housing initiatives, ASF is tackling the root causes of instability while laying the groundwork for generational change.
Our work is anchored by three core pillars: Education and Academic Support, Workforce and Leadership Development, and Community Engagement and Empowerment. We believe true revitalization extends beyond buildings—it requires equipping children with the tools to excel academically, preparing adults for sustainable careers and leadership roles, and activating residents to shape the future of their own neighborhoods. By combining housing with education, workforce pathways, and community-driven initiatives, ASF is not just rebuilding structures, we are rebuilding hope and creating thriving, resilient communities where families can flourish for generations to come.
TIMELINE
2024
Laying the ground
work
Organizational Launch: ASF was officially established as a nonprofit dedicated to reducing vacant homes and uplifting neighborhoods.
Community Engagement: Hosted and supported community fun nights, back-to-school events, and book-bag giveaways. Families enjoyed food, games, music, and surprises like henna art, while children received free books and school supplies.
Educational Support: Began shaping our tutoring program, ensuring local students had access to academic help and encouragement.
2025
Building Momentum
Property Rehabilitation: 5
Neighborhood Cleanups & Beautification: Organized block cleanups, removing trash, overgrowth, and blight while engaging residents in reimagining their streets.
Community Safety & Lighting: Installed solar lights in vulnerable neighborhoods to improve safety and walkability, giving residents peace of mind.
Food Security: Distributed groceries and through regular food giveaways to support families in need.
Youth Investment: Developed plans for our Tutoring services, a structured program to support students academically and socially.
Ongoing Impact
Jobs & Apprenticeships: Building pathways for young people and community members to learn trades through ASF rehab projects and partnerships with local contractors.
Advocacy & Representation: Giving communities a voice by working closely with associations, city partners, and neighbors to ensure redevelopment reflects the needs of the people.
Inspiration & Hope: From a young girl’s observation—“Dad, everyone deserves a strong foundation”—to a growing movement, ASF is reminding Baltimore that vacant homes can become vibrant homes, and neglected neighborhoods can flourish again.
4 HOMES
rehabbed since our inception in 2024
5 additional homes projected for rehabbed within the next 12 months
10
Community Events
partnerships providing resources, tutoring, and community support.
1000+LBS
of food distribution to local Baltimore residents
Food distribution done in collaboration with community partners