United Way of Central Maryland Benefit Concert
Nov 23, 2025 01:15PM ● By Derson Gilson
The United Way of Central Maryland brought the community together through music, purpose and pride during its annual benefit concert, an evening that combined local and national talent to raise awareness and support for the organization’s mission of promoting equity, access and opportunity across Greater Baltimore.
Held in the heart of the city, the concert featured a powerful lineup that included the Whiskey Feathers, Baltimore’s own Elyscia Jefferson, R&B legend CeCe Peniston, the Baltimore City College Choir and Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist Common. Each performance highlighted the city’s creative energy and its shared commitment to uplifting Baltimore’s communities.
United Way President and CEO Franklin Baker said the concert represents more than just entertainment; it’s an extension of the organization’s work to build stronger, more equitable communities. “Our focus is equity, access and opportunity,” Baker said. “We want every single person to have a chance to thrive. It’s about meeting people where they are, removing barriers and giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
The concert opened with the Whiskey Feathers, whose soulful sound set the tone for an evening focused on unity and community pride. The energy grew when Elyscia Jefferson took the stage, performing Michael Jackson’s “P.Y.T.” and Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” along with several of her own original songs.
Jefferson, a 22-year-old singer from Baltimore and former contestant on “The Voice,” said it was a special moment to perform for her hometown. “Baltimore really means art, expression and beautiful, lively people,” Jefferson said. “It’s love and creativity. I want young girls to see me and believe that it’s possible. You just can’t give up. Keep trying, keep believing in yourself.”
CeCe Peniston followed with a performance of her classic hit “Finally,” earning a standing ovation from the audience. Later in the evening, Peniston joined the Baltimore City College Choir and Baker for a special rendition of the United Way theme song, a performance that became one of the night’s defining moments.
The Baltimore City College Choir also performed a selection of their own earlier in the evening, showcasing the next generation of Baltimore talent. Choir director Marcus D. Smith said the opportunity gave his students more than stage experience, it gave them purpose.
“It’s giving students hope, teaching them skills and showing them that they can really accomplish great things in life,” Smith said. “At the end of the day, I just want them to know they have a support system. Somebody they can go to and talk to.”
Many choir members said performing in their hometown filled them with pride. “It’s Charmed City,” one student said. “It’s where I grew up. It’s the one place I can always come home.”
The night closed with a headlining performance by Common, whose blend of hip-hop, spoken word and soul carried messages of love, perseverance and unity themes that echoed United Way’s goals. His set brought the crowd to its feet and ended the night on an uplifting note.
For Baker and United Way, the concert reinforced what community connection can accomplish. “This concert is about bringing people together,” Baker said. “It’s about showing what happens when we use art, culture and compassion to lift each other up.”
By the end of the night, the message was clear: Baltimore’s heart beats strongest when its people stand together. The United Way Benefit Concert not only celebrated the city’s music and culture, but it also strengthened its commitment to building a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Photography by: Trokon Anderson
