A new collaborative effort is helping shape the future of homeownership in Baltimore.
Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) of Baltimore was proud to host the official launch of CONVERGENCE Baltimore, an initiative developed in partnership with the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) that brings together housing organizations, lenders, nonprofit partners, government agencies, and community leaders with one shared goal: expanding equitable access to homeownership.
The launch event marked the beginning of a citywide collaboration focused on creating sustainable pathways to homeownership, reducing barriers, and helping more Baltimore residents build long-term wealth through homeownership.
A Collaborative Vision for Baltimore
Homeownership remains one of the most effective ways families can build financial stability and generational wealth. Yet many Baltimore residents continue to face barriers that make purchasing a home more difficult.
CONVERGENCE Baltimore was established to address these challenges through collaboration. By bringing together organizations from across the housing industry, the initiative will identify solutions, strengthen partnerships, and increase access to resources that support homebuyers throughout their journey.
As the host organization for the launch event, NHS Baltimore welcomed partners committed to making homeownership more accessible and ensuring every Baltimore resident has the opportunity to succeed.
Event Highlights
The launch featured remarks from housing leaders, community partners, elected officials, and industry experts who shared a common vision for expanding homeownership opportunities throughout Baltimore.
Featured speakers included:
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Sonia Eaddy, President, Poppleton Now!
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Pamela Martin, Assistant Vice President CRA Mortgage Originator, M&T Bank
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Naji Rashid, Realtor, The Rashid Group
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Chloe Williams, Director of Housing Counseling & Homeownership Opportunities, Druid Heights CDC
Special guests and dignitaries included:
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Kari Snyder, Assistant Secretary, Division of Neighborhood Revitalization, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
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Cory McCray, Maryland State Senator, District 45
Throughout the event, attendees participated in meaningful discussions focused on:
- Increasing equitable access to homeownership
- Strengthening partnerships across the housing industry
- Supporting neighborhood revitalization
- Creating long-term opportunities for Baltimore families
Watch the CONVERGENCE Baltimore Fishbowl Conversation
Missed the launch or want to revisit the fishbowl conversations? Watch the event recordings here!
Fishbowl Discussion: Outreach & Trust
Fishbowl Discussion: The Homebuying Process
Fishbowl Discussion: Preservation & Sustainability
At the CONVERGENCE Baltimore launch, Senator Cory McCray, Maryland State District 45 and Kari Snyder, Assistant Secretary, Division of Neighborhood Revitalization, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development shared remarks on the importance of expanding homeownership, supporting stronger communities, and creating more equitable pathways to long-term economic stability. Both speakers emphasized the value of cross-sector collaboration and the critical role that housing organizations, financial institutions, public agencies, and community partners play in addressing barriers to homeownership throughout Baltimore.
Senator Cory McCray, Maryland State District 45
Kari Snyder, Assistant Secretary, Division of Neighborhood Revitalization, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
Event Photo Gallery
Take a look at highlights from the launch event.
Learn More About CONVERGENCE Baltimore
The launch event is just the beginning. Learn more about the initiative, its mission, participating organizations, and opportunities to get involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CONVERGENCE Baltimore?
CONVERGENCE Baltimore is a collaborative initiative developed in partnership with the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) that brings together housing organizations, lenders, nonprofits, government agencies, and community leaders to expand equitable homeownership opportunities throughout Baltimore.
Why was CONVERGENCE Baltimore created?
The initiative was created to reduce barriers to homeownership by fostering collaboration, identifying solutions, and connecting residents with resources that support successful homeownership.
Who is involved in CONVERGENCE Baltimore?
The initiative includes lenders, nonprofit housing organizations, community development organizations, government agencies, real estate professionals, and other housing stakeholders committed to increasing homeownership opportunities.
What is NHS Baltimore's role?
Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore serves as a key community partner and hosted the official launch event. NHS also provides homebuyer education, housing counseling, mortgage programs, financial coaching, and home repair services that support the initiative’s goals.
How can I become involved?
Residents, organizations, and community partners can learn more about the initiative by visiting us at https://www.nhsbaltimore.org/convergence-baltimore/ and connecting with participating organizations.
I'm interested in buying a home. Where should I start?
NHS Baltimore recommends beginning with a HUD-certified Homebuyer Education Workshop followed by one-on-one counseling with a Homeownership Advisor. These services will help you understand the homebuying process, explore financing options, and determine what programs you may qualify for.