14,000 Square Foot Space Marks a New Era of Empowerment and Impact for Baltimore’s Young Men
Next One Up (NOU), a leading Baltimore nonprofit dedicated to empowering young men through academic, athletic, and social development, proudly announces the opening of Base Camp, its first full-time programming space.
This transformative 14,000-square-foot hub, situated at the heart of Belvedere Square, functions as a dynamic and creative learning and social center, offering young men in Baltimore City consistent access to life-changing programs, services, and support, fostering growth and success. The opening of Base Camp marks a pivotal moment for NOU, expanding its programming from one day a week to seven, which will significantly enhance the impact and opportunities available to its dedicated participants.
“Base Camp is a game-changer for Next One Up and the young men we serve,” said founder Matt Hanna. “With a space of our own, custom-built to maximize opportunities, we are opening the door to endless possibilities and empowering our guys with the tools and support they need to reach new heights. It’s not just a physical space; it’s a place where dreams are nurtured, potential is unlocked, and lasting impacts are made. I am incredibly proud to see Base Camp come to life and excited to witness the positive impact it will have on the lives of our youth.”
Since its establishment in 2009, NOU has been at the forefront of providing early and consistent individual counseling, support, and empowerment programs for young men in Baltimore from middle school through adulthood. Base Camp marks a new chapter for NOU, providing a dedicated, centralized home to expand programs and accommodate more young men, transforming lives and shaping brighter futures.
The facility caters to the unique needs of each student participant, offering a wide range of amenities, including:
- A dedicated academic area equipped with tutoring and academic classrooms.
- A hands-on maker space for robotics and engaging STEM activities.
- A cutting-edge tech lab with 3D printers and computer workstations
- Independent study spaces to promote focus and productivity and private, comfortable spaces for mental health counseling and support.
- A fully-equipped gym with locker rooms, weightlifting, cardio, and cross-fit equipment, along with warm-up and mat areas.
- An alumni-run barber shop where a NOU alum will provide access to free haircuts for younger program members.
- A vibrant social lounge fostering a welcoming environment for meals, games, and meaningful connections.
“Many young men in this city choose activities in the streets to be their second home,” said NOU alumni Jaiheem Henderson. “Next One Up’s Base Camp offers another option to consider, offering access 7 days a week, hot meals every night, mentorship, and many other resources that are needed to equip them for life. I am proud to call Next One Up my second home, and I can’t wait to share it with other young men in the city.”
The move to a full-time hub at Belvedere Square is made possible by the support of private, corporate, and state partners rallying behind NOU’s first capital campaign. More than $5.3 million was raised to fund the $2.6 million build-out and secure resources for future programming at Base Camp.
During its first year of operation, Base Camp is projected to serve 10,000 meals, provide 400 hours of academic instruction, and deliver 300 hours of focused athletic training, further broadening access and opportunities for its 190 participants.
To learn more about Next One Up and its vision for Base Camp, please visit www.nextoneup.org
About Next One Up
Founded in 2009, Next One Up is committed to supporting underserved student-athletes throughout Baltimore City. Through highly individualized wrap-around support, NOU empowers young men to become the city’s next generation of leaders. With adaptive year-round multi-year programming, NOU fosters stability and lasting change, infusing out-of-school time with purpose and helping participants form a dynamic and concrete vision for their future. The organization’s ultimate goal is to equip students with the skills to be successful, self-sufficient, and socially conscious.
