Philanthropy in Communities of Color

In collaboration with Channel 7/WHDH TV’s Urban Update program, the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts (ULEM) is celebrating philanthropy in communities of color during the month of February. “Communities of color have a rich history and legacy of giving to our community, and we need to honor it, recognize it and promote it,” states Darnell L. Williams, CEO and President of ULEM. “Furthermore, it is essential that people of color see themselves not only as recipients of philanthropy, but as givers as well. This is especially critical at a time when violence dominates the media, negative images are heightened, and pessimism exists around the direction of our economy. We want to bring attention that, during these times, we need to remember that it is in these times that we all need to rise and give back to our community.”

During the month of February, every Sunday at 11:30am, Urban Update is featuring a series of philanthropy topics on communities of color: The History of Philanthropy in Communities of Color (Feb 3rd), Everyday Philanthropy: Giving Talent, Time & Treasure (Feb 10th), Youth & Philanthropy (Feb 17th), and Innovative Ways to Give (Feb 24th). These series will include a diverse perspective on philanthropy and ways in which people of color have made significant contributions for positive changes in our communities. Participants of the shows are from African American, Latino and Asian Pacific Islander communities. These shows will be viewed by 70,000 households, or 140,000 viewers.

The goal of this effort is to increase partnerships with media, non-profit organizations and diverse communities to recognize philanthropy in communities of color, increase giving in terms of time, money and talent, and create a collective community-based movement of giving. A part of this effort with WHDH TV is to counteract the negative and violent media images in communities of color by promoting healthier images of people of color. We hope that this will result in getting people of all racial and socio-economic backgrounds engaged in their respective communities.

“We need to recognize that a mass number of people who contribute from different backgrounds can make a significant difference. Participants from Mature Workers Program, a workforce development training program that works with over 145 organizations to successfully place mature workers over the age of 55 in jobs, are making financial contributions back to the program. Our constituents know how important it is to ‘give back’ and keep programs like this going so others can benefit from the service. It is a great domino effect,” explains Helen Credle, Program Director of ULEM’s Mature Workers Program.

Founded in 1917, the mission of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts is to deliver services and programs that aim to increase the economic self-reliance of African Americans and other people of color throughout our service area and to advocate for the core initiative [Empowerment through Math and English] and civil rights issues that critically affect their lives. For more than 90 years, the Urban League has successfully provided education, employment skills training, job placement, and advocacy for the betterment of African Americans and other people of color.

Join the Urban League’s movement of giving by signing up to become a member at www.ulem.org.