Partnerships Allow Church to Meet Critical Needs in Community

By Morgan Lewis

Baltimore, MD –  East Baltimore Graffiti Church has been offering a free “Graffiti Sports Camp” at Mund Park on Greenmount Avenue for nine years. The church, partnering with community groups, churches in and out of Maryland, and collegiate ministries, launched the camp to provide a safe and engaging environment for children during the summer, addressing a critical need in their neighborhood.

Graffiti Church Pastor Charlie Brown, affectionately known in the community as “Charlie,” said, “When we first got here, we knocked on about 1,000 doors and asked folks what the greatest needs were in our community. The number one need was to have more positive activities for children in the neighborhood, especially in the summertime.”

In addition to the regular camp activities, the church partners with Baltimore City YouthWorks and the Summer Food Program, ensuring that children receive free breakfast and lunch every day.

Most importantly, beyond sports, the camp emphasizes faith. “Each week, they’re hearing about faith in Jesus Christ and learning how to put that trust in Him,” Charlie added.

Each week, new mission teams from churches in and out of state come to support the camp financially and work directly with the students. These teams help ensure that each week of camp runs smoothly, providing essential resources and personal involvement.

The camp also benefits from the involvement of Baptist Collegiate Ministry students from Towson University, Morgan State University, UMBC, and others. These students serve as coaches and administrative helpers, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to the camp.

Rachel Jones, who directs the campus ministry GraceLife at Towson University, shared, “It’s been such a blessing to get our students involved with the ministry of East Baltimore Graffiti Church.” She also highlighted how college students have been helping with the church‘s food pantry throughout the year and now have the opportunity to serve at the camp.

One student in particular who’s involved at GraceLife, Cierra Jackson, a sophomore at Towson University, expressed, “Through GraceLife, I’ve connected with so many other college students and learned to be bold in Christ and share my faith. Being here at Graffiti, I’ve learned how to share with the students about Jesus.” As a dance coach, Cierra has worked closely with the kids and developed a deep appreciation for their desire to serve.

The camp coaches this year are more hands-on than ever, using football equipment to teach the kids everything they’ve seen on TV. This practical approach not only engages the children but also gives them valuable skills and experiences. Jayquan Jenkins, a junior at Morgan State University, is a first-year camp football coach who shared his experience: “Being here at Graffiti has helped me grow my faith. My favorite part of camp is our huddle/Bible study. It gives me a chance to share with the kids and relate to how I’ve grown in my own faith and how I can continue to grow in faith.” Jayquan’s testimony resonates with the boys he mentors, showing them how to incorporate God into all aspects of life, including praying before games. “Pastor Charlie has taught me how to go heart to heart with students and help them understand who Jesus is,” Jayquan added.

You can support Graffiti Sports Camp by donating equipment, volunteering your time, or contributing financially to East Baltimore Graffiti Church. Email ebgraffiti.org to learn more and get involved.

Feature photo by Morgan Lewis (A camp counselor helps a girl with Bible study at Graffiti Summer Camp)