Somebody Finally Agreed to Pay Me

From Hot Takes to Real Work

Blogs were fun when it was all theory, no paycheck. Now look, I’m not saying I’ve stopped poking holes in “The Detroit Renaissance.” I’m just saying somebody finally agreed to pay me to do something else.

And that something? Thanks to the Chesapeake Bay Trust, we received $16,540 for three community-led projects in West Baltimore. That’s right, I’m not just talking anymore. Pinocchio’s a real boy now.

Wait, you might be asking, “I thought your whole business plan was to leverage your TikTok videos into a sponsorship with Natty Boh?” To that I can happily say: NOT ANYMORE.

Project 1: Lower Gwynns Falls Park

First up: Lower Gwynns Falls Park. We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Gwynns Falls Community Association, where the momentum’s already real. These folks don’t wait around—they bought six vacant lots for $60k and turned them into Mighty Park—a bumping new green space created on vacant land.

Now, we’re building on that energy and shifting focus to Lower Gwynns Falls Park—an underused public space owned by Baltimore City Rec & Parks. The goal? Work with residents to shape a plan that actually reflects the neighborhood’s needs—and brings the park to life.

Project 2: Auchentoroly Terrace

Secondly, Auchentoroly Terrace. This gem of a neighborhood, down the block from the Zoo. And while it doesn’t have an Okapi, it has a lot going for it. A deep history, dedicated neighbors—and the land. Vacant? Maybe. Maybe not. The New Auchentoroly Terrace Association has been working with the Greater Mondawmin Coordinating Council to make improvements. Now we’re taking it to the next level!

We’ve been brought in to help craft a strategic plan for what comes next. Which lots should become permanent green space? What will that green space look like? And, most importantly—how do we make these spaces stick? We’re aiming for something rooted, lasting, and community-driven.

Project 3: No Boundaries Coalition

Finally, the No Boundaries Coalition is a force for good in Central West Baltimore—think Avengers, if the Avengers held peace rallies and lasagna dinners. The point is, they’ve done the work to help pull the community together.

Since 2008, they’ve worked to dismantle the real and imagined barriers separating seven neighborhoods. Now we’re teaming up to lead workshops for their youth organizers on how vacant land can be reimagined as community green space. Grassroots justice, baby! No cape required.

We’re thrilled to be part of this work. Hit that subscribe button to follow the journey!

Postindustrial Futures