Ways To Give Back During Black Philanthropy Month
It was just a few years ago that I really got familiar with Black Philanthropy Month. Running a nonprofit for 17 years, you’d think I’d be up on the ‘giving-back’ culture. Now after raising funds to support my own nonprofit, I have a greater appreciation for what it means not only to give, but to give BLACK.
What does that mean exactly? After doing my homework, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Blacks don’t have a problem giving back. In fact, a report by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation found that Blacks give 25% more of their annual income than white households.
The report also says that “nearly two-thirds of African-American households donate to organizations and causes.” And based on my experience in fundraising for causes to benefit black and brown girls, there’s almost always a personal testimony tied to their giving. Black donors who supported our cause would often times relate a personal story to their giving. Whether it was a daughter who suffered from low self-esteem or based on their own childhood experiences, donors of color who gave to my nonprofit had an enormous amount of empathy.
And it doesn’t stop at the check book. The Philanthropy News Digest reports African-Americans are among the most active volunteers. Ninety percent of those who responded to a survey say they are likely to volunteer.
That’s why it does my heart well to know that the giving doesn’t stop in the Black community. According to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, each year African-Americans donate $11 billion to causes.
I’ve learned in order to be ‘great’, it starts with service and giving back. In the nonprofit world, the fundraising strategy is anchored by the ‘Three T’s” or three ways to give. Time – can you volunteer, serve on a committee or board? Treasure – can you offer financial support to the cause? And Talent – do you have a specific skill set (organization, leadership, artistic ability) to further advance the cause?
Consider a Black-led organization to make a difference in your community. Thanks to Share Charlotte, there are hundreds of reputable nonprofit organizations in which to serve.
Happy Giving!
#BPM2020CLT
