Giving Voice to Fuel Change #2017
Black Philanthropy Month (BPM) was created six years ago with the central aim of “informing, involving, inspiring, and investing in Black Philanthropic leadership to strengthen African American and African descent giving in all its forms.” The idea was created by Dr. Jacqueline Copeland-Carson, Tracy Webb, and Valaida Fullwood—all three of whom are very active in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors. Perhaps the best way to talk about the need for BPM is to focus on the meaning of “non-profit.” It means to give time, talent and money to endeavors that benefit the community at large. And in that sense, “nonprofit” becomes community profit. It’s cooperative economics, and it’s collective work and responsibility at its finest.
What does Black Philanthropy mean? It means raising money from among ourselves and our allies, and with those funds, creating strategic plans to strengthen our institutions with services and programs to benefit our communities and families. To be a philanthropist, one does not have to give a lot of money. Small amounts, given consistently over time in the same way one tithes for faith giving, goes a long way toward meeting community needs. How can you get involved in BPM during the month of August and beyond? Here are a few suggestions:
- Become informed—visit Black Philanthropy Month
- Learn about the black non-profit organizations in this region, their names, mission, vision, and how you can help.
- Encourage your faith community and social clubs to host activities for BPM and start a giving circle to benefit one or more nonprofit organizations in your community and/or near and dear to your heart.
- And very importantly, pass along the values of service, volunteerism, and fund raising for social causes to young people.
Submitted by Contributing Writer, Kawasi Somadhi
Executive Director for Black United Fund of Sacramento Valley, Inc.United Fund of Sacramento Valley, Inc.
