It’s Almost Time to Celebrate at the Druid Hill Y

Final coats of paint are being put on, floors are being waxed and people are getting ready…to reopen the Druid Hill Family Center YMCA this Friday after several months of pro bono renovation work.

 

Each January for the past 35 years, the Y of Central Maryland hosts a breakfast to honor Dr. King. This year, the Y decided to forego the event and invest time and energy instead into the revitalization of the historic Druid Hill Family Center Y in Baltimore.

The Michael Group, which has been a financial supporter of the Y for many years, is the lead volunteer contractor on this project. The Michael Group, together with Peristyle Design and a committee of dedicated volunteers enlisted subcontractors and suppliers to work pro bono at the facility to get the job done.

John K. Hoey, President & CEO of the Y of Central Maryland added “The outpouring of support for this project inclusive of volunteer labor, is nothing short of amazing and truly inspirational. The Michael Group and Peristyle have all gone above and beyond. The community we serve in Druid Hill will benefit greatly from their contributions.”

“The partnerships we have built on this project are inspiring. It just goes to show, that even in bad economic times, generous businesses and individuals are willing to help out for a good cause.” said Perry Savoy, Owner of Peristyle Design.

The Druid Hill Family Center Y will officially reopen the gymnasium, lobby and computer lab on Friday, April 30. From 1 to 6 p.m. when the Y and its lead sponsors will host a free community block party in front of the center. All are welcome to enjoy food, live music, face painting, free books, community vendors and artists, the Y Fit-n-Fun Van, a farmer’s market, games, giveaways and other activities.

Be sure to come check it out!

A Win for Affordable Housing in Maryland

The Michael Group wants to congratulate the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition on it’s great work this past legislative season. Two important housing initiatives were passed as the end of this year’s Legislative Session.

First, the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust was fully funded at the $2,000,000 requested by the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition and it’s supporters. MAHT funding will help generate more affordable housing opportunities state-wide, put Marylanders back to work and further propels the Coalition’s goal of creating and preserving more affordable housing in Maryland. 

The second was the passing of the Sustainable Communities Act of 2010. This Act will provide $10 million for the Sustainable Communities Tax Credit. It replaces the former Maryland Heritage Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit. Its primary objective is to support existing communities as desirable places to live and do business and to reduce outward pressure for sprawl development.

The Michael Group is proud to be a member of the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition. If you are committed to Affordable Housing and are not yet a member of MAHC, please consider joining. Your participation will make a difference. For more information about joining MAHC, check out their website.

Baltimore Sun photo by Barbara Haddock Taylor / April 12, 2010): Governor Martin O'Malley, left, watches from the House of Delegates gallery as one of his legislative initiatives, House Bill 472, is declared passed. Kimberly Fry, Executive Director of Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition, is in center. The bill deals with residential property foreclosure procedures. Kurt Sommer of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development is on right.

Step Up to the Plate

The Michael Group is proud to be a sponsor for the Baltimore Station’s upcoming annual fundraiser: The Homerun for Recovery. This is a party you don’t want to miss. The party takes place at Nick’s Seafood at Cross Street Market on April 22nd from 6:00pm-9:30pm. The Tickets are $60 in advance and $70 at the door. For the cost of your ticket you and eat and drink all you want while mingling with Baltimore movers and shakers! The live and silent auctions are not to be missed. Prizes include memorabilia, tickets to Orioles and Ravens events and other unique experiences, vacation trips and more.

Who knew going out to party with your friends and colleagues could do so much good!

Your support helps hundreds of Baltimore's addicted men and returning veterans enter recovery and resume healthy, productive lives

The funds raised support a cost-effective proven program addressing addiction and homelessness

The Baltimore Station program reduces crime, the cost of unemployment and imprisonment

Hope to see you there!