4A's’ Post

“The intention to disavow Black opportunities for ownership was very intentional, and counteracting intentional disinvestment requires intentional investment,” says Entrenuity Founder and President L. Brian Jenkins, an IFF client. “How do we get past that and solve the problem? We believe the answer is coaching, connecting, and capitalizing.” As we mark the beginning of #BlackHistoryMonth, we celebrate the many Black #nonprofit leaders who are working to dismantle barriers rooted in systemic racism. To learn what that looks like at Entrenuity, click here: https://lnkd.in/gNGk4scA

In honor of #BlackHistoryMonth, we recommend this The Chronicle of Philanthropy article, which frames our sector as needing "...to play the long game when it comes to racial justice." Cora Daniels shares four pieces of advice for philanthropic funders looking to ensure a healthy future for all Black people: ✊🏾Fund Black-led organizations in longer grant cycles, and without restrictions. ✊🏾Understand that financial capital isn't the only way to show your support - other assets (e.g., social capital, time, talent, knowledge, and physical space) can be incredibly helpful. ✊🏾Approach the work with a mindset of care, and consider investing in the wellness of Black leaders. ✊🏾Take a futurist view and rethink risk by focusing on an organization's strengths and potential. https://buff.ly/3Uy9oOf

Everyday, I am trusted by leadership to: Fund Black-led organizations in longer grant cycles, and without restrictions. ✊🏾Understand that financial capital isn't the only way to show your support - other assets (e.g., social capital, time, talent, knowledge, and physical space) can be incredibly helpful. ✊🏾Approach the work with a mindset of care, and consider investing in the wellness of Black leaders. ✊🏾Take a futurist view and rethink risk by focusing on an organization's strengths and potential. #blackhistorymonth #trustbasedphilanthropy #equityfunding #relationshipsmatter

Last month we hosted the Rest Forum, dedicated to frank discussions around burnout in the nonprofit sector. Recently, Nonprofit Quarterly published MCR CEO Shamyle Dobbs' personal story about crisis, burnout, and what "being enough" means as a Black leader of a nonprofit. Her journey is personal, but not unique. As we head into Juneteenth tomorrow, it seems an appropriate time to reflect on what kinds of vulnerability and humanity are allowed in our work, especially when it comes to BIPOC leaders. You can read her story here. https://hubs.li/Q02Ch5rv0

Maryland's Future Shines Bright! Celebrating Black History Month 2024! Attention Maryland's business mavens and entrepreneurial spirits! Are you ready for CHANGE? Imagine a world where Black businesses thrive, unfettered and unstoppable. That's the vision the Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce is turning into reality. With top-tier training sessions from seasoned pros, we're not just talking business – we're igniting a powerhouse of growth and innovation! We're on a mission, but it's a team game. Your involvement is the key to unlocking potential and leveling the playing field. When we join forces, we don't just open doors – we tear down barriers. Your support is more than a donation; it's a legacy. Every contribution plants seeds of opportunity that will grow into the mighty oaks of tomorrow's business landscape. Investing here means investing in the dreams and successes of Maryland's Black entrepreneurs. Let's sow seeds of success and nurture a flourishing future for Black businesses. Your support today is the cornerstone of a thriving, equitable tomorrow. Ready to be a beacon of progress? Support the Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce. Let's be the architects of opportunity and the builders of dreams! Visit https://postly.link/KUPy/ to contribute today! The Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce - Connect, Educate & Advocate Join us: www.marylandbcc.org #EmpowerBlackBusinesses #DonateForChange #TogetherForSuccess #ChamberOfCommerceMagic

White supremacist culture perpetuates that you have to get something to give something. It assumes that information and content shared have to be tied to clear deliverables and that outcomes operate by a clear set of criteria that often act as an obstacle instead of an accelerator. Sometimes, sharing a story and driving a narrative is an outcome in itself. Shout out to Jon Kraus for amplifying my essay "To the Young Black Fundraiser". There was a comment in his post regarding intelligent action and how we see content all the time but "nothing changes". Let me be clear: Sharing the stories of Black fundraisers isn't just content—it's a catalyst for change. Sharing narratives and culture change is an outcome. Keep sharing your stories. Keep sharing your voice. Here's mine again: https://lnkd.in/gt8PZ8Ug

Fantastic book recommendation for Black Americans looking to navigate negotiations while recognizing the biases and obstacles that may arise—especially within small businesses and local non-profits where you might be in the minority. “Negotiating While Black: How to Get What You Want in a World Designed to Keep You Out” (https://lnkd.in/g-8a5s_R) Highly recommended for those seeking to bring their best selves to the table!

When it comes to the Black Funding Principles, Principle 7 emphasizes the importance of preserving the Black philanthropy practice of self-reliance and mutual support. 🙌🏽🙌🏾🙌🏿 As donors, working with a philanthropic advisor can help to harness this principle to drive sustainable, community-led change. Applying this principle means honouring and amplifying the strengths within Black communities. It’s about recognizing and leveraging community know-how and resources, while also holding society accountable for ensuring equity. 💰 The key takeaway here is that communities themselves should lead the way to change. By supporting the tradition of self-reliance and mutual support, we lay the groundwork for lasting, community-driven impact. 🚀 #CommunityDriven #BlackPhilanthropy #CollaborativePhilanthropy

I’m extending a challenge to philanthropy, including foundations, non-profits, and community members alike, to begin to make detailed accounts of the assets found in Black communities. With as much effort, resources, and time that we dedicate to putting together list after list of the disparities that exist in Black communities, let’s create community asset maps of Black institutional assets, physical assets, people assets and other forms of capital that we possess. And let those assets be the inspiration for how we build more thriving Black communities! CONTINUE READING  “RADICAL PHILANTHROPY FOR BLACK-LED MOVEMENTS” HERE: shorturl.at/013788 ****************************************************************************** The month of March will be dedicated to S.M.A.R.T. Black Philanthropy. Follow me as we delve deeper into what asset based philanthropy is and how it can be used to invest in Black communities. ****************************************************************************** S.M.A.R.T. Black Philanthropy aims to advance a new model of philanthropy in Black communities. This model is asset based instead of deficit based. It prioritizes a collaborative approach instead of a competitive approach to philanthropy. Finally, it is rooted in Black traditions and movements.