August is Black Philanthropy Month.

It is no secret that the Black community supports our own. In the US, a report from 10 years ago showed that Black households donated, on average, $11 billion each year. A culture of family and charitable giving is deeply rooted in our communities. It is how we have survived throughout history – and how we will survive moving forward.

In the past year and a half, the pandemic has decimated so many of the private and public supports that were in place to help our communities heal and thrive all over the world. Through everything that has happened, we have supported each other. A humanitarian crisis or natural disaster back home results in funds and goods sent to support the local communities. When an entire country erupts in justified and frustrated protest, funds are set up for protesters that may run into legal issues and we march – and kneel – with our brothers and sisters from wherever we are in protest. When we lose a beloved member of the community, supports are immediately put in place for loved ones left behind.

We grieve together. We protest together. We support each other. WE GIVE.

Philanthropy has traditionally been driven by White giving models – whether driven by corporate messaging or leaders within the community. The Black community has challenged these traditional philanthropic models. Black giving has been built on family, on our culture, on a movement. Collectively we are all doing our part to eliminate wealth gaps and racial disparity and we are doing it in our own way when institutions have failed to put the proper supports in place.

Throughout August and beyond, we challenge you to continue finding ways to give back to your community. When one person thrives, we all do.

Who in your local community is making a difference? Share your stories with us either by responding to this email or tagging us on social media! (Instagram: @supportblackcharities | Twitter: @supblkcharities)