Powell Recovery Center Enhances Community Engagement with Daily Outreach Programs

The City Council of Baltimore convened on July 30, 2025, for a hearing focused on public health and environmental issues affecting the community. The meeting aimed to discuss the integration of community programs and their engagement with local neighborhoods.

One of the key discussions centered around the importance of community integration for local programs. A representative from Powell emphasized the necessity for organizations to actively engage with their surroundings. They highlighted that programs should not operate in isolation but rather be embedded within the neighborhoods they serve. This approach ensures that services are accessible to those in need.

The representative shared that Powell has been committed to this principle for a long time, stating that they strive to be exemplary community members. To achieve this, they have implemented a strategy of placing staff directly in the community. Specifically, they have two to three staff members present on-site at the Best and Power Recovery Center from 6 AM to 9 PM. This presence allows them to monitor community interactions and assess the needs of local residents.

Additionally, Powell conducts daily walks around the community to gather data and observe the environment. These walks serve two purposes: to reinforce their visibility as a supportive neighbor and to identify any activities that could be misinterpreted as related to their recovery services.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of community engagement for public health initiatives. The discussions underscored the need for ongoing collaboration between local programs and the neighborhoods they serve, ensuring that services are effectively tailored to meet community needs. Further follow-up actions were anticipated to enhance these community relationships.