EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Read Bio

Curtis Ritz is an innovative executive leader with a deep commitment to driving positive change through service to others. He brings a proven track record of leading organizational growth, securing sustainable funding, and cultivating strategic partnerships.

With experience as a Vice President of Operations, he has successfully managed extensive service delivery across large urban areas, including securing significant grant funding and expanding workforce development programs. His background also includes managing daily operations for a hospitality property as an Operations Manager, overseeing guest services, financial management, and human resources. Curtis is adept at blending hands-on leadership with strategic vision to deliver measurable results and foster community engagement.

URBAN CANOPY PROGRAM MANGER

Read Bio

Colin has been an integral part of The 6th Branch since November 2011, starting as a volunteer and taking on various roles within the organization. He graduated from Stevenson University in 2012 with a degree in Public History.

Colin's commitment to service led him to complete two years with AmeriCorps, including service with the Clean Energy Service Corps in Austin, Texas, and as a VISTA with The 6th Branch, where he played a key role in establishing the Oliver Community Farm. During his time with The 6th Branch, Colin pursued further education, earning his Master's in Public Administration with a focus on Public/Nonprofit Management from the University of Baltimore in 2021.

With Liz's arrival to the team, Colin transitioned into the role of Urban Canopy Program Manager while continuing to oversee volunteer opportunities. You can often find him wearing his signature orange hat, caring for and planting trees across our sites and neighborhoods.

Colin's dedication exemplifies our organization's values of service, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.

COMMUNITY FARMING PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Read Bio

After four years in Baltimore's real estate title industry following her economics studies in DC, Grace found her passion with The 6th Branch in 2022. Starting as a volunteer in the Urban Canopy program, she quickly embraced the organization's mission.

After volunteering with Liz on the farm sites, she then worked as an intern for the farming program, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Transitioning into full-time farming, Grace embarked on a journey of learning under Liz's guidance and the support of Future Harvest’s Beginner Farming Training Program. She's thrilled to merge her love for community engagement with sustainable agriculture in her newfound role.