A new teen and youth dirt bike center is set to open in Harborplace, bringing STEM education and mechanics training to young riders in Baltimore. The center, run by B-360, aims to provide a safe space where teens can learn valuable skills and explore career opportunities through dirt bike culture.
B-360, founded in 2017 by CEO Brittany Young, is on a mission to create new paths to careers and opportunities through a unique combination of dirt bike culture and STEM education. The organization offers classes, workshops, teaching opportunities, and job placement for students interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
At the core of B-360’s mission is the belief that by leveraging the passion for dirt bike riding, they can help end the cycle of poverty, disrupt the prison pipeline, and build bridges within communities. By providing youth and young adults with the skills needed to secure educational and career opportunities, B-360 aims to change the negative perception of dirt bike riders and create a positive impact in the community.
Dirt bike riding is illegal on public streets in Baltimore, which is why B-360 was founded – to encourage riders to practice in safe spaces and teach them how to maintain their bikes while also preparing them for potential job opportunities. Through curated events and programs, B-360 aims to shift riders away from traffic and into a safe environment where they can showcase their talents and riding skills.
The organization recently announced the launch of its teen and youth center at Harborplace’s Light Street Pavilion, with a ribbon-cutting and Giving Hour Celebration scheduled for March 25. This new space will provide a dedicated area for youth to engage in STEM education and learn about dirt bike mechanics in a safe and supportive environment.
The addition of the teen and youth center at Harborplace marks a significant step for B-360 and its founder, Brittany Young. A Baltimore native, Young is a retired engineer and educator who was inspired to create B-360 after her minor brother’s incarceration. She saw a need in her community for innovative STEM education and programming to address nonviolent crimes, particularly related to dirt bikes.
Through B-360’s approach, Young has created a solution that not only provides opportunities for young riders but also promotes public safety, increases job opportunities, and fosters community relations. By working with various stakeholders, including students, law enforcement, and policymakers, B-360 aims to create equitable solutions that benefit all involved.
As B-360 continues to expand its reach and impact, the organization remains committed to its core goals of increasing public safety, providing job opportunities for youth, enhancing career readiness, and fostering positive community relations. With support from partners like the NBA Foundation, the Abell Foundation, and the Johns Hopkins University Social Innovation Lab, B-360 is well-positioned to continue its mission of empowering young riders and creating lasting change in Baltimore’s communities.
