Sneaker Ball photos: The Be. Org raises $45k and launches Baltimore Dream Maker series

Good music and the glow of blue LEDs spilled onto the Inner Harbor’s promenade on Saturday, inviting guests to a hub of Maryland’s tech-startup culture. 

The Rita Rossi Colwell Center transformed for a night into a multi-room celebration highlighting Baltimore’s sneaker culture and the 10-year community impact of The Be. Org.

Beyond its immersive activations and stylish attire, The Be. Org’s fifth annual Sneaker Ball was a fundraiser. The nonprofit netted about $5,000 on the day of the event, and another $40,000 in sponsorship value. It all supports the organization’s efforts to support youth dreamers, according to spokesperson Jay Simms.

All proceeds from the event, per Simms, will go directly to programming, which focuses on social-emotional learning, STEM enrichment and college readiness. People can still support the cause through Friday, April 12.

Give to The Be. Org here

In tandem with the swanky event, The Be. Org rolled out its Baltimore Dream Makers series, designed to highlight the achievements of Baltimoreans making a difference in their communities. 

Figures like author and TV writer D. Watkins, She’s WELL Networked founder Nakeia Drummond and a dozen others were honored for their community contributions.

Experiencing FOMO? Fear not! Technical.ly was there as a media partner. Scroll down for photos of the vibe and the fun.

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The headline for this article has been updated to include the total amount raised in connection to the Sneaker Ball. A previous version only included day-of totals.