Pulling together the threads of philanthropy, religion, race, and the lives of working single men in Baltimore, Jessica Elfenbein examines the powerful role of voluntary organizations in shaping modern America. Darwin H. Stapleton, Rockefeller Archive Center

A useful study . . . containing a great deal of important material on the Baltimore YMCA, its founders, the work it did for 80 years, and the benefits of that work for the community. Barry D. Karl, Harvard University

This compelling story of a city and one of its key institutions affords a revealing perspective on urban...