Programs
Neighborhood Revitalization
The Neighborhood Revitalization focus area provides legal representation to community associations and nonprofit organizations in Baltimore City to help bring their neighborhood revitalization goals to fruition, making their communities cleaner, greener, safer, and more attractive places to live, work, and play.
Working with community leaders, the Community Law Center attorney represents the interests of Baltimore's community associations to:
- Protest liquor license renewals and transfers;
- Draft Articles of Incorporation and bylaws to help associations operate effectively and efficiently;
- Obtain 501(c)(3) status;
- Stop drug dealers from using houses for the distribution of narcotics;
- Clean and beautify vacant houses and lots;
- Work effectively with City and State agencies and elected officials; and
- Much, much more!
Community associations and nonprofit organizations within Baltimore City seeking legal assistance through the Community Legal Services program should send a completed application and the application fee to the Community Law Center. Beyond the nonrefundable application fee, generally no fees are charged for the attorney's time, but clients are responsible for direct expenses (filing fees, postage, copying expenses, etc.) related to their cases. If your organization would like help applying for tax-exempt status please also submit a draft of the completed IRS Form 1023.
Community associations are encouraged to purchase the Community Law Center's manual "How to Start a Nonprofit Organization in Maryland" to get their organization started as well as to keep their organization running efficiently and effectively. Community associations are also encouraged to purchase the Community Law Center's manual "Revitalizing Baltimore's Neighborhoods: Legal Tools for Community Associations" for in-depth information on strategies community associations can use to make their neighborhood a place everyone would want to call home!
