BALTIMORE — According to the Urban Institute, the D.C. based think tank that carries out economic and social policy research, the disparity of home ownership between white and black households in the 'Baltimore, Columbia, Towson' area in Maryland is about 31 percent.
It's a gap Stedman Graham, author, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker, wants to narrow.
"This is preparing for success which is 'success is when preparation meets opportunity.' Preparation is a very important word," he said.
Graham, while on his book tour promoting his latest book 'Identity Leadership,' says those same traits are what's needed to create a stronger ownership base. It's why he's partnering with Wells Fargo and HomeFree-USA to create more homeowners.
"This program is designed to empower people based on teaching them the importance of education and learning, teaching them the importance of relationship, teaching them importance of creating a value system, teaching them the importance of being able to understand the process of success and how it works," Graham said.
Marcia Griffin, the founder of HomeFree-USA, a non-profit home ownership development foundation, says there's power in buying a home, and all people in the city need to do is take the first leap.
"We all have some kind of challenge whether it's credit, whether it's student loans, whether it's procrastination, whether it's just a sense of 'I cannot do it.' In life, in order to move forward, you have to align yourself with people that can help you move forward," Griffin said.
It's a better way, both Griffin and Graham agree should start on the blocks of Baltimore no matter which neighborhood people pick.
Those interesting in learning more could sign up for a "Step Into Your Power: Prepare for Success Through Homeownership" seminar held June 22, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore. The first session was so popular it filled up, and a second date was added. Those still looking to attend will can sign up for the new June 27 session, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., also at the museum.
Register here at homefreeusa.org/power
