Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT), an organization dedicated to connecting generous individuals with nonprofit partners working to help our community thrive, recently concluded its celebration of Black Philanthropy Month. This dedicated effort embodied the spirit of giving and empowerment within the Black community, celebrating a legacy of resilience, generosity, and collective action.
Globally recognized since 2006, Black Philanthropy Month serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy that defines the Black community across generations. It highlights the myriad ways in which Black individuals and groups give back, emphasizing the vital role of collective action in uplifting underserved communities. This year’s theme, ‘Love in Action,’ envisioned moving beyond the rhetoric of philanthropy as love for humanity to make it real in Black communities. By doing so it harkened back to philanthropy’s essence that unquestionably encompasses the Black community.
Throughout the month of August, the Community Foundation, and its ‘Give Black, Give Back’ initiative, hosted a series of enlightening discussions and events while actively promoting awareness on its social media channels. These activities underscored the spirit of giving, empowerment, and community that defines Black Philanthropy Month.
A poignant moment during this month-long celebration was Give Black, Give Back’s Black Philanthropy Month Reception held on August 17 at Community Foundation’s headquarters. The event witnessed a captivating blend of emerging talents from the nonprofit, corporate, and entrepreneurial sectors mingling with trailblazers who have laid the foundation for today’s growth and prosperity. At the heart of the evening was a compelling panel discussion moderated by CFMT’s Keith King and featured esteemed CFMT family members and contributors, including Mrs. Gail Williams, Dr. Turner Nashe, and Mrs. Phylanice Nashe. Their heart felt stories resonated deeply, shedding light on the challenges and resilience often inherent in the Black philanthropic journey.
Give Black, Give Back also organized a virtual grantee reception, honoring four remarkable Black-led nonprofits with $500 grants, amplifying their missions and origin stories. The recipients of these grants were Black Lemonade; Nashville Freedom School Partnership; Community Clinic of Shelbyville and Bedford County, Inc.; and Creative Girls Rock!
Reflecting on this year’s theme, ‘Love in Action’ and its return to the core meaning of philanthropy, co-founders Kia Jarmon and Lisa Swift-Young shared their insights on Facebook Live as they closed out the month’s festivities. This included the expression that Black Philanthropy Month centered on love of self, society, and the planet we share, including Black communities everywhere as equal members of the human family. At the conclusion of the conversation, Kia took a moment to announce her departure as co-chair.
“Some of us are there to begin, middle or end a project, or some of us can do all of it,” said Kia. “And while I love the idea of doing it all, it is important for me to do what I came to do and step away.”
Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and its Give Black, Give Back initiative remain steadfast in their commitment to honoring the tradition of giving and empowerment within the Black community. Although Black Philanthropy Month 2023 has concluded, a dedication to fostering love, unity, and generosity within humanity, including Black individuals, continues to shine brightly 365 days a year. Learn more about Give Black, Give Back at <www.BlackGivingBack.com>.
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