Stories

Principles of Generosity Threaded Across Generations

Black philanthropists share their perspectives on giving for social change

Black philanthropy comprises a rich and varied tapestry -- as divergent as its people, the origins of its inspiration, and its manifestations in giving. Frequently rooted in bonds of family and community, expressions of giving encompass the full spectrum of time, talent, and treasures.

The Hornets' Nest is not your mother's Girl Scout council — or maybe it is. The Girl Scouts have been blazing trails since 1912, when founder Juliette Gordon Low started a movement to redefine what was possible for girls everywhere. The nearly 12,000 girls served by our local council continue to redefine what is possible for themselves and the communities they will someday lead. 

Right Moves For Youth (RMFY) provides students in the greater Charlotte area the support and guidance they need to succeed by leveraging positive and long-lasting relationships. Using a school-based model, RMFY provides youth services and group mentoring to empower students to graduate from high school and set the stage for what comes next. 

Nonprofit Leader Helps Grow Tech Talent in Underserved Youth 

By Jonathan McFadden

Two things changed William McNeely’s life when he was just a teenager: court-ordered busing and a mother who took success seriously. 

In late 2019 our SHARE Charlotte team began planning our themed Spotlight content for the upcoming year, and we knew we wanted to feature Black Philanthropy Month in August. However, as we looked around the room at our six white faces we realized that while we had the platform and the channels to host a big conversation, it was obvious that a celebration of Black Philanthropy Month was not ours to lead. We knew it would be inauthentic without the perspective, leadership and voices of Black community leaders and philanthropists. 

SHARE Charlotte is proud to partner with many generous organizations as part of our community-wide giving promotions, and our recent partnership with Bank of America during our annual summertime Shop for GOOD was no exception. For several years, Bank of America has championed SHARE Charlotte’s Shop for GOOD promotions and encouraged our city to underwrite the needs of the nonprofits by purchasing the items from the charities’ Amazon wish lists.  

Written by Amy Andrews

For over thirty years, Southminster has been a leader in the field of aging, providing innovative living solutions and care at their home campus on Park Road. Two years ago, Tracy McGinnis, Southminster’s Director of Philanthropy, saw an opportunity for Southminster to help in developing and expanding programming to seniors living at The Retreat at Renaissance West.

Founded in 2013, Christopher’s House of Refuge works tirelessly to provide 24-hour affordable housing and health care to elderly and disabled individuals. 

Executive Director of Christopher's House of Refuge, Paula Dallas-Speight, shared an inspiring story with the SHARE Charlotte team about the impact the organization had on the lives of one family in particular.