DANA STEIN

Civic Works

Dana Stein has spent more than three decades building institutions that create opportunities and strengthen communities across Baltimore. As the executive director of Civic Works, a nonprofit launched in 1993, Stein also has served in the Maryland House of Delegates since 2006. He has dedicated his career to advancing workforce development, environmental sustainability and equitable growth through both direct service and public policy.

Under Stein’s leadership, Civic Works has grown into a nationally recognized organization that now employs about 150 staff, engages hundreds of AmeriCorps members annually and has impacted hundreds of thousands of Baltimore residents. The organization’s success is built on more than 10 transformative programs that address urgent community needs while building long-term economic opportunities. These initiatives include the Center for Sustainable Careers, YouthBuild, the REACH! Partnership School, Real Food Farm, Energy Programs and Housing Upgrades for Seniors, preparing Marylanders for careers in industries ranging from health care and construction to renewable energy and community revitalization.

The measurable impact of Civic Works reflects Stein’s commitment to accountability and results. The organization has placed nearly 1,500 people in family-sustaining jobs with a placement rate of nearly 90% for program graduates, completed 27,500 energy-efficient home upgrades, transformed 295 vacant lots into vibrant spaces and distributed 331,000 pounds of fresh produce to residents. This track record of effectiveness attracted a $7 million investment from MacKenzie Scott in 2023, affirming the organization’s future potential.

Stein’s leadership extends beyond Civic Works into the Maryland legislature, where he has held prominent roles including speaker pro tem and chair of the Environment Subcommittee, shaping major policy decisions on environmental protection and sustainable growth. His dual platform allows him to address systemic barriers while directly serving communities through innovative programs like Baltimore Shines, which brings solar power to low-income households, and rapid-response initiatives such as food deliveries to seniors during COVID-19.

“Starting Civic Works was my greatest challenge,” Stein said. “It took more than two years of planning and navigating city systems to bring the vision to life. Teaming up with Kathleen Kennedy Townsend was an essential step to turn an ambitious idea into a sustainable organization that’s now empowered thousands of Baltimore residents.”

Stein’s approach to leadership emphasizes service, creativity and resilience. He believes the most impactful leaders are those who see challenges as opportunities to innovate, collaborate and invest in people. His work demonstrates that lasting leadership means listening closely to community needs and being willing to create new solutions when existing systems fall short. He encourages the next generation to remain grounded in empathy, surround themselves with diverse perspectives and measure success not only by financial results but also by community impact.

Looking ahead, Stein envisions Civic Works continuing to expand its role in building a more equitable, sustainable Baltimore. “My legacy should be one of building institutions that endure: a nonprofit that has transformed hundreds of thousands of lives in Baltimore, and a legislative career defined by environmental stewardship, equity and public service,” he said.

Stein is particularly passionate about the Coldstream-Homestead Montebello community, where deeply engaged residents actively plan events, hold local cleanups and advocate for their neighborhood. When not working to strengthen Baltimore, Stein enjoys spending time with his two dogs, a labrador and a labradoodle.