Source: Urban Institute

Date Published: 09.30.2025

Link: Evaluation of the Promise Heights Promise Neighborhood

The Urban Institute’s seven-year evaluation of the Promise Heights Promise Neighborhood examines how a coordinated, place-based initiative can address systemic inequities in Baltimore’s Upton and Druid Heights communities. Funded through the federal Promise Neighborhoods program, Promise Heights created a cradle-to-career support network that connected families to early education, K–12 programs, health care, and social services.

The report highlights the importance of strong partnerships between schools, local organizations, and families in sustaining progress despite challenges such as leadership changes and the COVID-19 pandemic. These collaborations helped stabilize families and improve access to education and health services. However, the evaluation also identifies long-term sustainability as a significant challenge, noting that without continued funding and stronger local governance, the model’s impact may be difficult to maintain. Overall, the findings underscore that lasting community development relies on trust, sustained investment, and the ability to respond to local needs.