This is a wonderful strong organization supporting the many aspects of science fiction and related genres through local activities and an annual convention, Balticon, with about 2000 attendees. My family and I have attended Balticon annually since 1989. After all these years, I've finally been persuaded to "do a little" more than just come to conventions and serve as the Treasurer. It is high time to "give back" to my community and here is why I am doing it.
We raised our daughter among this wonderful group of friendly, super intelligent, thoughtful and interesting people. She learned about service through volunteering at conventions and other BSFS events through the examples she saw of what can be accomplished when people work together. She explored science, anime, manga, and costuming in an environment of people of all ages that let her see the diversity of humans and thought that make up the world. In this world she saw living examples of how people of all kinds can live and work together in a peaceful, respectful environment. For this alone, I am eternally thankful to this group.
The commitment BSFS has to literacy through its ever-growing lending library, contests for writers, and fund raising for children's literacy programs is deeply felt and second to none. The Compton Crook Award for the best novel of a first time published SF writer encourages people to keep writing and others to start or continue. The Young Writers Contest recognizes works produced by school age writers with publicity and little cash to show them it is all worth it.
The art show at the annual convention, Balticon, is a place many young people get their first showings (and sales), Balticon is also a great opportunity for readers and writers to meet published authors, agents, and just like-minded folk over the Memorial Day Weekend. In addition, BSFS has hosted some of the best World Science Fiction conventions I have ever attended.
The fact that there are many STEM folks involved in BSFS helps support three full days of science programming at Balticon, alongside all the fun of a great costumed masquerade, sessions for dancing and singing, artists presenting and doing work, the panels of authors discussing everything imaginable, group sings and opportunities to buy books not easily found, handcrafts and special items reflecting the interests of fans.
Away from the convention, BSFS hosts family friendly gaming afternoons, a writer's circle, with several published results, and a science fiction movie night in its east Baltimore clubhouse.
This is all done without paid professional help. Just the hard work of hundreds of dedicated volunteers for the last 50 odd years. BSFS and Balticon are some of the best things about being in Baltimore.
Review from Guidestar
BSFS has been a great organization to work with, I started out volunteering with them at their convention over 6 years ago, and they have been great to work with and now to be a board member for. They (and now we) work hard to stretch every penny to it's max, and to have a strong and diverse culture for the betterment of Sci-Fi Literature.
Review from Guidestar
Balticon (the convention run by BSFS) apparently believes that some people are more equal than others. Its staffers violate the convention's published policies and lie about their actions.
Review from Guidestar