It’s Time to Save Ourselves — Philanthropy For Us
As I looked around the room of pristine, beautifully manicured 50-year-old white women, I thought…something about this isn’t quite right…
As I looked around the room of pristine, beautifully manicured 50-year-old white women, I thought…something about this isn’t quite right. I don’t belong. These women have great intentions and are mostly good people. I mean, after all, here they are on a Tuesday afternoon listening to me, a black nonprofit consultant begging for money on behalf of one of my many clients, projects, people, community, etc.
I’ve worked in philanthropy for over 15 years. I do it for the mission, but I’ll admit, it’s selfish. I feel like a better person working for a mission. I sleep eight blissful hours knowing that the program I coordinated fed a hungry child or paid hospital bills for a sick relative.
Last year amidst COVID, I left my organization to consult full-time. I intended to work only with organizations with a mission that aligns with my personal beliefs. I want to spread social good. That’s what I believe my contribution to the world is. And deep down, I think that’s what keeps me going.
It wasn’t until today that I felt like my work didn’t matter. I’m sitting at a table with 12 women that look nothing like me. They’ve probably never been to my community — hell, they can’t even pronounce my name correctly.
It’s pronounced “Shawn Tay”. Come on, ladies, get it together!
But here we are. Them on one side of a beautiful table that wasn’t built for me, and me on the other. The fate of my project, which serves my community to help my people, lies in their hands.
The 12 women are part of a Giving Circle. According to the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers’ More Giving Together, a giving circle is formed when individuals come together and pool their dollars, decide together where to donate the money, and learn about their community and philanthropy.
A few weeks ago, I came across Candice Marie Benbow’s article Black Women Are Redefining What It Means to Be a Philanthropist. The article speaks to the power of micro giving and community philanthropy. It’s also provided inspiration and a rough outline. We need more types of charity that reflect black and brown communities.
I left the meeting knowing what to do. I need to start my own Giving Circle. I want the people who represent our communities to decide on funding. I want people to launch extraordinary projects. I want to feed babies and help with cancer research and do it all.
I can’t save everyone but WE can save some.
I’m starting a Giving Circle. The circle is for anyone who wants to give back to their community directly and have a voice while doing so. Projects will fund all that you deem worthy.
If you’d like to join, want more information, or are interested in helping with the giving circle, please get in touch.