Pauline Charles is a resident of Baltimore City and a leader in the local IAF affiliate, Baltimoreans United in Leadership Development (BUILD). She lives in a tough neighborhood in east Baltimore, one of the most violent districts in Baltimore City.
BUILD organizers met Ms. Charles during a campaign to clean-up the neighborhood and address safety issues. Her community was held hostage by a local gang. People were afraid to sit on porches. Early safety meetings had to be held outside of the community because of the fear. Three years later, thanks to BUILD’s organizing work and Ms. Charles’ efforts, things have changed - the community has addressed trash and dumping, successfully fought to secure a recreation center for the neighborhood, and initiated greening efforts.
