BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, February 19, 2025) – Today, the Baltimore City Continuum of Care (CoC) announced the results from its recent Board election. In collaboration with the CoC, the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services (MOHS) welcomes Community Housing Associates President & CEO Nico Sanders as chair (pictured left) and The Nolita Project Co-Founder & Director Jamal Turner as vice chair of the Baltimore City CoC.
Both Sanders and Turner have a wealth of knowledge and experience in human service and supporting vulnerable populations. Together, the duo will work to advance the mission of the Baltimore City CoC by fostering collaboration, increasing access to resources, and improving outcomes for people of all ages who experience homelessness in Baltimore.
Nico Sanders, Chair, Baltimore City Continuum of Care
As President & CEO of Community Housing Associates (CHA), Nico Sanders is a visionary leader in affordable housing, mental health advocacy, and community development. Recognized as the 2024 Maryland Influencer of the Year by The Daily Record, Sanders has been instrumental in driving transformative change within Baltimore City, strengthening housing stability and expanding critical support services for vulnerable populations. With a distinguished background in executive leadership, Sanders brings expertise in strategic planning, financial management, and nonprofit program development.
As a former Baltimore City Mayoral Fellow, Sanders possesses a deep understanding of the city’s social and economic landscape, uniquely equipping him to address systemic housing challenges. Under his guidance, CHA is dedicated to expanding access to safe, affordable housing, ensuring that vulnerable residents not only find shelter but also thrive within Baltimore’s diverse communities. His advocacy highlights a lifelong dedication to advancing equitable policies and amplifying underrepresented voices.
A visionary and results-driven leader, Sanders leverages his policy expertise, financial acumen, and grassroots advocacy to drive meaningful change in Baltimore City’s housing landscape and the Continuum of Care. His steadfast commitment to the city ensures that affordable housing remains accessible, essential services are seamlessly integrated, and individuals have the support needed to achieve long-term stability and success. Sanders is a member of Leadership of Maryland (Class of 2023), board member for the BLK ED Network, the ARC Central Chesapeake Region, and was appointed to the Baltimore County Redevelopment Authority by then-County Executive Johnny Olszewski, Jr.
Jamal Turner, Vice Chair, Baltimore City Continuum of Care
Jamal Turner is the Co-Founder & Director of The Nolita Project and has dedicated his life to serving his community. Born and raised in Baltimore City and having to navigate through the foster care system, Turner is a fully licensed financial advisor that firmly believes that "a dream remains a dream until it's transformed into a goal.” Professionally, Turner’s work intertwines wealth management with community advocacy, positioning him as a champion for community wealth building, accountability, and advocacy. Since 2018, Turner has served as the Co-Director and Board Chair of The Nolita Project Inc. (a 501(c)(3) organization), where he develops curriculum for youth and implements strategies for community and school-based initiatives. As a Senior Financial Advisor, Turner has managed a portfolio exceeding $75 million and tailored financial strategies to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and businesses. His commitment to advocacy extends to various boards, including his roles as Co-Chair of Baltimoreans for Educational Equity (2018-2023) and current Vice Chair of Baltimore's Police Accountability Board (2023-present). Turner is committed to eradicating youth homelessness in Baltimore and will utilize his expertise to aid the board in accomplishing this goal strategically. In his free time, he enjoys stock market investing, reading, chess, and community organizing.
Learn more about the Baltimore Continuum of Care.
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Contact:
Jessica Dortch
Public Information Officer
(410) 746-7933
Jessica.Dortch@baltimorecity.gov