Our Community Relations program has the most far-reaching positive impact on all of our member associations in the Northeast.  

Comprised of all of our 80+ constituent organizations, HARBEL’s Community Relations program provides a variety of services for our members:

• liaison between government and residents 

• forums on a variety of topics through which our members become informed about current pertinent issues

• monitor the docket of the zoning and liquor board for neighborhood impact 

• develop testimony for members when necessary 

• sponsor the NorthEast Citizens Patrol

• strengthen local businesses

• assist commercial revitalization efforts 

• maintain ability to develop new community programs 

• serve as fiscal agent for grant-seeking neighborhood groups 

• provide advocacy and referral services   

• spearhead special activities and events

• mentor upcoming community leaders

• develop community forums for issues of concern

In addition to on-going services and programs, the Community Relations unit coordinates a giant Community Flea Market which draws vendors, buyers, gawkers, and fun-seekers from the whole region.   Held the Saturday before Mother’s Day, the Flea Market features flowers and plants suitable for planting in the ground or enjoying inside the house.

In early Spring, HARBEL’s Annual Meeting brings the elected leaders representing our communities on the city, state, and federal level to a social event with our residents and friends.  The Annual Meeting introduces the directors of each of HARBEL’s three programs who present their year in review and feature their unique activities.  The agency’s staff  is also introduced to the community.

Summer activities usually revolve around attending as many of the community’s festivals and fairs as is humanly possible.  Almost every weekend sees another community association conducting a social event, gathering their members in an informal setting to meet new and old friends and share memories.

Fall means HARBEL’s gala dinner cruise cannot be far behind.  This invigorating community event is held aboard the Lady Baltimore and leaves the Inner Harbor for a cruise to the bay bridge, returning in the early evening.  Amid good food and music, neighbors from our associations can talk with their friends and meet and learn about residents in other associations.

Winter work includes sharing in holiday festivities throughout our area with good friends from all of our associations.  Many of our groups dispense with their usual business meeting in favor of a social evening where neighbors can participate in holiday cheer and wish each other a healthy new year.

Community Relations is on-going throughout the year and continues to impact our many communities in all their doings. To volunteer for the NorthEast Citizens Patrol and help make your neighborhood safer, please call 410-444-1949.  To volunteer for one of other programs or learn how you can get involved in your community association, please call our office at 410-444-2100.