Mr. Cosby\u2019s appearance in the predominantly black neighborhood was to encourage residents to enroll in Baltimore City Community College. During a nearly hour-long speech, Mr. Cosby said it\u2019s never too late for high school dropouts to improve.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s no love out there,\u201d\u009d Mr. Cosby said of the street life. \u201cThe only thing out there is how to write your entrance exam to jail. We\u2019ve got to teach. The church is open. Go on in.\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n
Mr. Cosby has been the source of controversy when he has addressed mostly black audiences. His criticisms of men fathering children out of wedlock have been called divisive. He spent most of his Baltimore speech, however, imploring his audience to seek self-improvement and to build pride within their community.<\/p>\n
Young people of St. Ambrose said Mr. Cosby\u2019s message of hope at St. Ambrose could be a catalyst for change.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt means a lot for someone that popular,\u201d\u009d said Maulana Waters, 15, \u201cto come out and speak to regular people like us.\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n