The Research Associates Foundation (RAF) is committed to promoting progressive activism in the Baltimore, MD, area. In June 2010 RAF launched a new phase in its history, providing small grants to support the projects of local progressives. Activists from the 1960s through the twenty-first century have united to continue the ever necessary tasks of building a peaceful and just society.

Founded in 1982 by longtime activists, RAF owned and operated the Progressive Action Center (PAC) at Gorsuch and Kirk Streets in Baltimore. There, numerous groups such as the Workers Action Press, the Alternative Press Center, and Baltimore Action for Justice in the Americas had headquarters and held activities.

For many years the Progressive Action Center was a significant center for events, organizing and information related to anti-racist and anti-imperialist movements, along with women’s, LGBTQ, and workers’ rights groups and campaigns. With changing community needs, however, in 2009 Research Associates Foundation sold the PAC in order to begin its new grantmaking phase.

In 1982 the nightmare of neo-conservative economics and politics was well underway. Since then it has deepened further. The well-being of the planet is in danger, social polarization has increased throughout the world, and the United States government is committed to a foreign policy of war without end. These trends have a significant effect on the general welfare of the Baltimore area. We welcome more activists from all generations to work to reverse these trends.

At this site you may learn how potential applicants and donors can contribute money and time to this cause. You may also learn about the history of the RAF, our members and our operating principles; and you may access our grant guidelines and application. Every generation has its particular role and place in the building of progressive movements. Please join us. The need is urgent.