Center helps Creative Alliance promote lifelong learning in a changing Highlandtown: ‘It’s a community thing’

Before Alejandra Flores gave birth to her son, Creative Alliance was just a name in their neighborhood. Over a decade later, the Highlandtown-based organization’s classes and events have shaped Joaquin Miller’s young life. From his very first Great Halloween Lantern Parade to after-school programs and weekend art classes, 11-year-old Joaquin has grown up with Creative Alliance. “When he was born and we went to the first Lantern Parade, we fell in love,” Flores said of the procession of illuminated, handmade lanterns through Patterson Park that’s become one of Baltimore’s most anticipated Halloween traditions. “After that, we haven’t skipped one.” Despite Creative Alliance’s emphasis on the arts, the nonprofit considers itself a service organization centered on building community, especially in — but also beyond — Southeast Baltimore.