blackgivesback

Charity Auctions Offer Chance to Meet Prominent Black Philanthropists

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

If you had a chance to meet a prominent black philanthropist who serves on numerous boards and has donated millions of dollars for charity, what would you ask? Here's your chance to meet two renowned philanthropists, all for charity! Charity Buzz, a leading online auction site for nonprofit organizations, is auctioning the chance to meet Pamela J. Joyner and Reginald Van Lee, both arts patrons and major benefactors. Proceeds from the auctions will benefit Evidence, A Dance Company, whose mission is to promote understanding of the human experience in the African Diaspora through dance and storytelling and to provide sensory connections to history and tradition through music, movement and spoken word. The charity auctions support the organization's upcoming 8th Annual Gala, Gatekeepers: Celebrating Service on February 13, 2012 in New York City.

Bid on your chance to win a private cocktail party for 20 in NYC with Pamela J. Joyner, Managing Partner and Founder of Avid Partners. Prior to founding Avid Partners in 2000, Ms. Joyner was a Partner at Bowman Capital Management, LLC and a Senior Executive at Capital Guardian Trust Company. She earned her AB and an honorary masters degree from Dartmouth College and her MBA from Harvard University. Ms. Joyner's community involvements include serving as a Co-Chair of the San Francisco Ballet and as a Trustee of the School of American Ballet, The McDowell Colony and the Making Waves Foundation.

Joyner's palatial home in San Francisco often serves as the site of numerous charity events, and in February 2010, President Obama appointed her as a member of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. View Joyner's auction here.

Or, how about a power lunch with Reginald Van Lee, Executive Vice President at Booz Allen Hamilton? Mr. Van Lee is a founding member of the Clinton Global Initiative, and he co-led the Urban Enterprise Initiative with the William Jefferson Clinton Foundation, where he focused on driving enhanced competitiveness to small businesses in Harlem.

He serves as Chairman Emeritus of the board of Evidence Dance Company, Chairman of the Board of the New York International Ballet Competition and as a Trustee of the Studio Museum in Harlem. He was appointed by President Obama to the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities and is a member of the MACS AIDS Fund Board. He is also a member of the Executive Leadership Council, Chairman of the Board of the Washington Performing Arts Society, Co-chair of the Board of Trustees of the Howard Theatre Restoration Project, Chairman of the Board of the National CARES Mentoring Movement and a Cabinet member of Habitat for Humanity International’s Global Capital Campaign. View Van Lee's auction here.

Reginald Van Lee
Additional items up for auction are a custom in home dinner for six prepared by Bravo TV star Chef Roble, and a golf foursome in California with legendary supermodel Beverly Johnson. To view all auctions and their terms, visit here.

Related post: 8th Annual On Our Toes in the Hamptons a Summer Delight

TheGrio.com Reports on Celebrity Philanthropy

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:47:00 +0000

This week, hip hop mogul Shawn ‘Jay-Z’ Carter performed two charity concerts at Carnegie Hall to raise funds for his foundation, the Shawn Carter Foundation and the United Way of NY. However, his giving met with skepticism, as reports recently surfaced that Carter reportedly donated only $6,000 in 2010 despite earning 63 million.

As many celebrities tend to use their star power to raise funds for charity without reaching into their own pockets, should they ask their fan base for their dollars? BlackGivesBack along with the Admiral Center and Jodie Blum, former Executive Director of hip hop artist Common’s charitable foundation weigh in. Head over to TheGrio.com and let us know your thoughts.

DC Entertainment Group Celebrates Anniversary by Giving Back

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:35:00 +0000

URBANE Donates 50 New Winter Coats to Bread for the City for 2-Year Anniversary Campaign

On January 27, 2012, Urbane Lifestyle & Entertainment Group, a lifestyle marketing and entertainment company, presented cash and clothing to Bread for the City, a Washington, DC based non-profit organization that provides vulnerable residents with services, for their inaugural city-wide “U2” coat drive event. In less than 10 days, the company raised $1,200 in online contributions and 50 new winter coats.

Urbane, which operates in seven cities, partnered with the local non-profit organization to help support children, ages 2-12 years old, who are in need. Supporters were able to make tax-deductible contributions online through a collective website, established through Bread for the City. Since 1974, Bread for the City has provided varied assistance to residents of the Washington, D.C. area. From legal and social services to health care, the non-profit organization is a key stakeholder in the community.

Urbane decided to launch their give-back “U2” campaign to add a philanthropic touch for the group’s two-year anniversary. In 2011, the company hosted fundraisers and private events, along with a 40-week run of their reoccurring event, The Urbane Lair at The Park at Fourteenth. On December 22, 2011, Urbane hosted their biennial dinner party, which featured Colie Williams and the Soul For a New Day Band. For more information, visit www.urbaneworldwide.com.

Atlanta Giving Circle Awards Local Nonprofits Serving Youth

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Jan Johnson (center, in black) of All Grown Up, Inc., accepts check from members of Circle of Joy. L to R Vivian Epps, April Jones, Ava Johnson, Dennisha Haynes, Krystal Webb, Joy Webb, Jan Johnson, Lisa Haygood, Gloria Webb, Kimberly Reed and Chonda Carney. Not pictured is Joni Tabb.

Circle of Joy giving circle hosts 2nd annual grant awards ceremony

The Circle of Joy, an Atlanta based giving circle that promotes collective giving, hosted its annual grant awards ceremony on February 4, 2012. The mission of the giving circle is to pool members’ time, talents and treasures to partner with agencies that are positively impacting youth in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Two organizations received grant awards, All Grown Up, Inc., and FCS Community Economic Development.

AGU mentors middle and high school age females to help them build self-esteem, confidence, set goals for college, and learn financial literacy. FCS Community Economic Development is the umbrella organization of Pride for Parents and the South Atlanta Bike Shop that serves south Atlanta youth. Jeff Delp, executive director of FCS and Andrej Ciho, founder of the South Atlanta Bike Shop shared information about their organizations and success stories of the participants, as well as how the students bonded with community volunteers who teach in the shop.

Circle of Joy grant award recipients.

During the event, Circle of Joy members shared their ideas of philanthropy and encouraged the guests to find ways to get involved with their communities through philanthropy. To learn more about the Circle of Joy, visit http://www.circleofjoyatl.org/.

About giving circles: Giving circles are increasing in communities of color as a vehicle for philanthropy and civic engagement. In the report, "The Impacts of Giving Together: Giving Circles as a Civic Engagement Strategy" released by the Community Investment Network, it notes that in much of the philanthropic sector, African American communities and other historically marginalized groups have been viewed as "demand-side" consumers. The giving circle model flips the script by encouraging people to reclaim their role as community philanthropists.

To learn more on how to start or join an existing giving circle, visit the Community Investment Network at www.thecommunityinvestment.org and read my guest blog post for the Washington, DC Foundation Center blog titled, "Three Reasons to Join A Giving Circle" here.

African American Entrepreneur Sponsors $1 Million Exhibit of Army's Integration

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:40:00 +0000

ARLINGTON, Va. - David L. Steward, co-founder and chairman of World Wide Technology, Inc., of St. Louis, Mo, recently made a $1 million donation to the National Museum of the United States Army. Steward’s gift will sponsor the Museum’s “Reflecting and Changing the Face of America Exhibit,” part of the Army and Society gallery, telling the story of the Army’s integration.

Not only will Steward’s gift chronicle President Truman’s Executive Order 9981 mandating equal treatment in the Armed Services; it will ensure the historic stories of African-American Soldiers such as the Buffalo Soldiers, Red Ball Express operators, Jackie Robinson, and GEN Colin Powell are told.

“We are pleased that Mr. Steward chose to support the Museum project through an exhibit he finds meaningful” said MG John P. Herrling (USA-Ret.), Campaign Executive Director, Capital Campaign for the National Museum of the United States Army. “This exhibit will also be an integral part of the larger story of the relationship between the Army, its civilian government, and the people.”

“Without the dedication and generosity of individuals like Mr. Steward,” Herrling continued, “we would not be able to tell the comprehensive story of the Army and the Army’s role in important changes within American society.”

Steward’s father served in the Navy during WWII and several members of his family have served in the Army. In a recent telephone interview, Steward explained that his father spoke of the racism he experienced in the Navy and how he overcame that to fight for his country. When he learned of the story of the Buffalo Soldiers, Steward’s father shared a sense of pride in their story and in the courage they displayed while serving.

The Museum will be a permanent tribute to the American Soldier and will honor their service and their sacrifice. “The stories and the Soldier heroes who lived them should not be forgotten,” emphasized Steward. “They protected our freedom, and provided me the privilege to run a business in a free enterprise system and enjoy and share the fruits of hard work.”

Steward is quick to explain that while he did not serve in the Army, his relationship with the Army and its Soldiers has developed through his business. “I have the opportunity to serve in a different way, by supporting Soldiers through improving upon and providing communications systems and advanced technology solutions that help our brave men and women meet their mission goals,” said Steward.

David L. Steward’s gift places him in the Five-Star Circle of Distinction reserved for donors of $1,000,000 - $4,999,999. More information on World Wide Technology, Inc. can be found at www.wwt.com.

Conceptual rendering of museum provided by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLP

About The Army Historical Foundation

The Army Historical Foundation establishes, assists, and promotes programs and projects which preserve the history of the American Soldier and promote public understanding of and appreciation for the contributions by all components of the U.S. Army and its members. The Foundation serves as the Army’s official fundraising entity for the Capital Campaign for the National Museum of the United States Army. The Museum will be constructed at Fort Belvoir, Va., to honor the service and sacrifice of all American Soldiers who have served since the Army’s inception in 1775. For more information on the Foundation and the National Museum of the United States Army, visit www.armyhistory.org.

Headshot provided by World Wide Technology, Inc.

Brooklyn Museum Fund for African American Art Hosts 2nd Annual Benefit Dinner

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Ron and Judith Davenport and Brooklyn Museum trustees Warren and Charlynn Goins attend the 2nd annual benefit dinner hosted by the Brooklyn Museum to support the Brooklyn Museum Fund for African American Art in Harlem, NY.

By Akira Barclay
NY Contributor
@BlkGivesBackNY

HARLEM, NY - On Wednesday, January 18, 2012, African American art donors and patrons gathered in Harlem at Red Rooster, the restaurant owned by famed chef Marcus Samuelsson, to raise funds for the Brooklyn Museum Fund for African American Art. Notable black artists in attendance were Sanford Biggers, Mickalene Thomas and Lorna Simpson, as well as prominent African American donors and museum trustees Kenneth and Kathryn Chenault, Saundra and W. Don Cornwell, Charlynn and Warren Goins, Tracey and Phillip Riese, Board of Trustees President Stephanie Ingrassia, and Charles and Suzanne Randolph Shorter.

The event celebrated the fund's inaugural acquisition, Web of Life, a 28-foot mural designed by leading twentieth-century African American artist John Biggers.

The museum states that The Fund for African American Art is a collecting initiative launched in 2010 to build Brooklyn Museum holdings of precontemporary African American art. The fund was launched by a $200,000 matching gift from Museum Trustee Saundra Cornwell and her husband Don, and by fractional gifts from Charlynn and Warren Goins of their important landscape by Robert Duncanson and a Charles Ethan Porter still life. The initiative was launched with the purchase of an early Sargent Johnson sculpture. Ms. Cornwell and Ms. Goins initiated the purchase fund along with former Trustee Tracey G. Riese.

Brooklyn Museum trustee and fund donor Saundra Cornwell, with artist Sanford Biggers

Yolanda Ferrell-Brown, Lola West and Joyce Mullins-Jackson

Brooklyn Museum trustees Kenneth Chenault, CEO of American Express and fund donor W. Don Cornwell

Michael Rosenfeld and artist Mickalene Thomas, who hosted the 2011 benefit, with Sanford Biggers

Director Arnold Lehman and Sanford Biggers

Khary Barnes, philanthropist; Nathaniel Thompkins, President, 21st Century Foundation (21CF); Sterling Walker, 21CF; and fund donor Ian Fuller

Amelia and Adebayo Ogunlesi

Kathryn Chenault

Ron Davenport and Bruce Gordon

Musician Rakiem Walker entertains the guests.

Additional gifts inspired by the initiative include five Edward Mitchell Bannister pastels given by Jason Wright, two early Hale Woodruff watercolors given by E. T. and Lyn Williams, an early Norman Lewis watercolor from Ian Fuller, and a Charles White etching from Milton and Nancy Washington. Camille and Luther Clark have promised the gift of their African American art library as well.

Currently showing at the Brooklyn Museum is Question Bridge, a video installation featuring 150 diverse African American men. Created by artists Hank Willis Thomas and Chris Johnson in collaboration with Bayeté Ross Smith and Kamal Sinclair, the exhibition includes five video screens, placed in an arc, playing videos of the men responding to questions. Their words are woven together to simulate a stream-of-consciousness dialogue, through which important themes and issues emerge. The subjects addressed include family, love, interracial relationships, community, education, violence, and the past, present, and future of Black men in American society. The men represent a range of American geographic, economic, generational, educational, and social strata.

The artists hope that the Question Bridge project will be a catalyst for constructive dialogue among Black men and others in the nation that will help deconstruct stereotypes about Black male identity in our collective consciousness. The Brooklyn Museum will present a wide range of public programs in conjunction with the project. For more information on Question Bridge at the museum, and an upcoming Teen Night open house event on February 10th for Black History Month, visit here.

Visit the Brooklyn Museum website at http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/.

Photo credits: Eric Weiss and Michael Barclay

29th Annual Black Creativity Gala Honors Science Contributions of African Americans

noreply@blogger.com (BGB Staff) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 +0000

Anita Green (2nd from left), Programs Committee chair for the 2012 Black Creativity Gala with guests Alicia Carroll, and Sandra and James Foster.

Chicago's African American leaders raise over $475,000 for Black Creativity program at the Museum of Science and Industry

By Sandra Davis
Chicago Contributor

CHICAGO - On Saturday, January 28, 2012, the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) hosted its 29th annual Black Creativity Gala with nearly 800 guests. The gala, planned in collaboration with a committee of prominent Chicago African-American leaders, raised more than $475,000 to support the annual Black Creativity program, which pays tribute to the culture, heritage and science contributions of African Americans.

At 6:30 p.m., guests enjoyed cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres and the chance to view the annual Black Creativity juried art exhibition, featuring more than 100 original works of art from African American artists.

At 7:30 p.m., guests adjourned to the Museum’s Central Pavilion and Rotunda for dinner catered by Sodexo. Keeping in tune with the evening’s Harlem Renaissance theme—a period of heightened African-American energy and culture during the 1920s and ‘30s—guests feasted on a lavish strolling buffet with seven stations decorated in black, silver and red.

The buffet’s stations, with floral accents by Kehoe Designs, featured an array of food with global influences, including “The Great Migration” station, which showcased food with Caribbean ties such as coconut-crusted Mahi Mahi, plantain and black bean empanadas and Caribbean paella. Other delectable buffet items included peppercorn-crusted Chateaubriand, Peking duck breast with Mandarin pancakes, and fried oysters served on the half-shell. Dessert station “Late Night at the Apollo” offered Bananas Foster flambee with praline ice cream and a selection of cakes.

NBC5’s Marion Brooks emceed the evening’s program and introduced the musical entertainment: Maurice Mahon and the New Face of Soul; the evening’s featured entertainer, Grammy®-nominated artist Freddie Jackson, noted for songs “You Are My Lady” and “Rock Me Tonight”; and DJ Lil’ John.

Frank Clark, featured in the Black Creativity art exhibit and NBC5's Marion Brooks; Shari Runner, Chicago Urban League and Gale Foster Farley, Event Chair.

Freddie Jackson performs.

Throughout the evening, guests experienced the 2012 Black Creativity exhibit, Powerful: African Americans in Energy, which explores America’s energy future and different energy sources with an interactive miniature golf experience that appeals to all ages. Guests can “putt” their way through a diverse landscape of “energy lands” representing oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydropower and more, and learn the pros and cons of each resource. Throughout the exhibit, prominent African-American professionals in the energy field are profiled to showcase the various careers available in the sciences. The exhibit runs at the Museum from Jan. 25 – April 15, 2012 and is free with general admission.

A committee of prominent Chicagoans, chaired this year by Gale Foster Farley, teamed with the Museum to plan this year’s gala. Shari Runner, senior vice president for strategy and community development at the Chicago Urban League, chaired this year’s Black Creativity executive committee and council; Anita Green, president of Anita Green Relocation Management, chaired the programs committee; and Gregory T. Hinton, chief diversity officer for the Democratic National Committee, chaired the fundraising committee.

Black Creativity 2012 was sponsored by Allstate, ComEd, Fifth Third Bank, ITW, Peoples Gas and US Cellular with media partners NBC5, the Chicago Defender, Clear Channel, WGCI (107.5 FM), WVAZ (103 FM), WGRB (1390 AM) and WLFM (87.7 FM). The Black Creativity 2012 exhibit, Powerful: African Americans in Energy is now open at the museum and runs through April 15, 2012.

For more event coverage of the 2012 Black Creativity Gala, visit Social Life Chicago here.

Ava Youngblood and Norma J. Williams; Michelle and Cedric Thurman

Nicole Williams, Bryon Henderson and Loni Swain

Merry Green, Ricky Pennick, Jessica Pennick

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago offers thousands of fun, interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind, world-class experiences to inspire the inventive genius in everyone. Through its Center for the Advancement of Science Education, MSI also aspires to a larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. Come visit and find your inspiration! MSI is open every day except December 25, and regular hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day; free days are offered every Wednesday in February. The Museum is supported in part through the generosity of the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, find MSI online at msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414 or (800) GO-TO-MSI outside of the Chicago area.

Photo credit: John Wheeler/Source: Press release, Museum of Science and Industry

Coca-Cola Partners with Celebrity History Makers for Once-in-a-Lifetime Apprenticeship Experiences Contest for Teens

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Coca-Cola Urges African Americans to “Pay It Forward” This Black History Month and Beyond

Via press release: Grammy Award-winner and philanthropist Ne-Yo, fashion designer Tracy Reese (pictured) and Essence president Michelle Ebanks are joining Coca-Cola in a refreshing new Black History Month program urging African Americans to “pay it forward” to the next generation.

The world’s most recognized brand celebrates Black history being made today, and aims to cultivate history yet to come, with the launch of “Coca-Cola Pay It Forward.” The program includes a public service challenge and online contest offering teens once-in-a-lifetime apprenticeship experiences with some of today’s leading celebrity history makers -- Ne-Yo, Reese and Ebanks. “Coca-Cola Pay It Forward” is designed to inspire African Americans to take an active role in empowering today’s youth to become tomorrow’s history makers.

“‘Coca-Cola Pay It Forward’ charges each of us with the responsibility to advance the next generation,” said Kimberly Paige, assistant vice president, African American Marketing Group, Coca-Cola North America. “By drinking and supporting Coca-Cola, our consumers make it possible for us to pay it forward with this one-of-a-kind opportunity. We strongly encourage moms and dads to participate in the mission - simply by nominating their teens for the unique apprenticeship experiences. We also invite the rest of the country to pay it forward to young people in their homes and communities - helping them to achieve their education and career goals this Black History Month and beyond.”

Parents can go to My Coke Rewards (www.mycokerewards.com/payitforward) and nominate their child, age 16-19, for a chance to win an apprentice experience. The four “mom approved” and “teen endorsed” apprenticeships will focus on the following areas: fashion (Reese), business (Ebanks), music/entertainment and community/philanthropy (Ne-Yo). Winners will spend a week this summer in New York City or Atlanta being mentored by and shadowing their celebrity history makers and teams. Teens are also invited to nominate themselves. The contest runs through March 15.

“We have all benefitted from those who came before us; our success stands on their shoulders,” said Ne-Yo, recording artist, songwriter, producer, actor and founder of The Compound Foundation. “Without my mom and mentors, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am happy, through my charity, The Compound Foundation, to partner with Coca-Cola and help pay it forward to the next generation.”

In addition to awarding the national celebrity apprenticeship experiences, Coca-Cola will leverage corporate and community partnerships to provide local opportunities in select cities, including Atlanta, Memphis, Detroit, Birmingham and Chicago, expanding the program’s reach. The public is invited to share ways it is paying it forward this month by posting its contributions on Twitter and using the hashtag #PayItForward. Photo: Zimbio

Black Male Activists in Detroit and Philadelphia Win Leadership Award

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:45:00 +0000

Black Male Engagement Award Winners Receive a Combined $443,000 to Strengthen Communities

NEW YORK — Twenty men—teachers, businessmen, writers and pastors—have been named winners of the Black Male Engagement (BME) Leadership Award, created to honor black men in Philadelphia and Detroit who step up to lead the community.

"There is no cavalry coming to save the day in black communities in America. The answers we're looking for reside right within the hearts, hands, and heads of community residents,” said Shawn Dove, manager of the Open Society Foundations Campaign for Black Male Achievement, which is helping to sponsor the award. “BME recognizes black men and boys as assets to the community, not as problems to be solved, and we're thrilled to be a partner in this strategy.”

The BME Challenge offers the winners a combined $443,000 with the aim of inspiring others to step forward to strengthen their communities.

The funding will pair young people with senior citizens and culinary experts to plant vegetable gardens in vacant lots, equip new fathers with parenting skills, provide therapy for autistic children, help veterans find services, and more.

The BME Leadership Award is part of the BME Challenge, which is led by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation in partnership with the Open Society Campaign for Black Male Achievement.

Earlier this year, BME asked local black men and boys in its two pilot cities to share the stories of what they do to make their communities stronger. More than 2,000 people in Detroit and Philadelphia submitted personal video and written testimonials, viewable at bmechallenge.org. Those who shared their stories were then eligible to apply for funding through the BME Leadership Award.

BME is an ongoing initiative that seeks to recognize, reinforce and reward black males who engage others in making communities stronger.

“The award shines a light on a truth that we need to remember: there are thousands of black men in these cities who choose to make it a stronger and better place to live for all of us,” said Trabian Shorters, one of the leaders behind the BME Challenge, which sponsors the award. “Perhaps if we tell their stories and others decide to support their efforts, you will see more and more black men and boys willing to follow their example.”

This spring, BME will be looking for local partnerships in Detroit and Philadelphia to encourage more black males to positively engage in their communities. This summer, BME will conduct another call for stories, to be followed in the fall by a call for a new round of applications to the BME Leadership Award.

Among the winners of the 2012 BME Leadership Award in Detroit are:

Brook Ellis: Ellis was in prison when his life was transformed by reading the biography of Reginald Lewis – lawyer, investor, philanthropist, and the wealthiest black man of his day.

Project: The Reginald Francis Lewis Reading Academy will strive to improve literacy, civic responsibility, and academic achievement at Martin Luther King, Jr. High School. Each enrolled student will read and write a self-affirming essay on the Reginald Lewis biography and "Lonely At The Top" a new e-memoir by his daughter, Christina Lewis-Helpern, and be exposed to a literacy mentor; 30 boys will participate in a competitive college readiness program at Michigan State University. ($40,000)

Curtis Lipscomb: After coming out as a gay man with HIV/AIDS, Lipscomb began helping young people around him take action against discrimination.

Project: Lipscomb will oversee the LEAD project, which will facilitate an in-depth training of 22 young Detroiters to become more effective advocates of social issues facing the city’s LGBT community. ($20,000)

Greg Corbin: Corbin is a teacher who integrates hip-hop, spoken word, and poetry into his classroom lessons to help better reach students. He also founded the Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement.

Project: Corbin will launch The Legacy Project, which will explore the multi-layered experience of Black men through a one-man theatrical performance and community workshops. ($25,000)

To learn more about all of the winners and the BME Challenge, visit http://www.bmechallenge.org/.

National Center for Civil & Human Rights Hosts ‘Giving Back’ Reception

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Audrey Jacobs, Director of The Center for Family Philanthropy, The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta; Valaida Fullwood, Author, Giving Back; Birgit Burton, Senior Director of Foundation Relations, GA Tech; Charmaine Ward, Director of Community Affairs, Georgia Pacific; Deborah Richardson, Executive Vice President, National Center for Civil and Human Rights; Doug Shipman, CEO, National Center for Civil and Human Rights; Janine Lee, President & CEO, Southeastern Council of Foundations; Charles W. Thomas, Jr., Photographer, Giving Back

By Lisa Brathwaite
Atlanta Contributor

On Thursday, January 26, 2012, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights hosted a Giving Back reception and book signing for Author (as well as blackgivesback.com-Charlotte Contributor) Valaida Fullwood and Photographer Charles W. Thomas, Jr. The two discussed and visually presented their book, Giving Back: A Tribute to Generations of African American Philanthropists, at the Georgia Pacific Auditorium to a receptive audience comprised largely of development professionals, grant-making institution/foundation leaders and philanthropically-focused individuals.

The event was co-hosted by the African American Development Officers Network, The Arthur M. Blank Foundation, The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, Georgia Tech Black Alumni Organization, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter, Southeastern Network of African Americans in Philanthropy and the Southeastern Council of Foundations.

“Perhaps like you, I used to hold a very narrow image of what ‘philanthropy’ is and what philanthropists do. There was a time that I thought ‘philanthropy’ applied only to ‘Rockefeller’ or ‘Carnegie’ or ‘Bill Gates,’ or ‘Walton’ or maybe ‘Oprah.’ And that philanthropy centered on great wealth, financial assets, monetary gifts—perhaps a big check, lots of zeros, followed by a press release,” Fullwood shared in opening the discussion.

Author Valaida Fullwood speaks at the event.

“Then I was reacquainted with the root, Greek meaning of the word: ‘love of humanity.’ And everything changed. As is often the case when love enters the scene, the focus shifted. I looked at philanthropy in a totally different way. Suddenly my experience was included in the frame, and what I knew as ‘philanthropy’ and ‘generosity’ and ‘giving’ and ‘love of humankind’ became part of the picture. We set out on a path to reframe portraits of philanthropy through the book, Giving Back and the Giving Back Project.”

Over the course of their presentation, Fullwood and Thomas shared their four+-years-in-the-making stories of interactions with and observations from everyday philanthropists and members of giving circles—small groups of people harnessing their financial capital and social capital to bring about the change they wish to see in their communities.

Kenny Ashe, Community Investment Network Board Member and guest Sylvia Webb, founder of 40 Girls & Some Shoes

Valaida Fullwood and Charles W. Thomas, Jr.

With Fullwood acknowledging her 91-year old Great-aunt Dora and Thomas citing his mother, Sandra Thomas, as their inspirations and examples of giving of personified, Thomas asserted that, “Philanthropy is the next wave of our Civil Rights Movement.”

Giving Back: A Tribute to Generations of African American Philanthropists can be purchased through John F. Blair, Publisher, Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Indiebound.org. Follow on Twitter: @valaidaf and @sankofaphotog.

For more information on the work and vision of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, click here. For ideas and questions about establishing a giving circle, like the Atlanta-based Circle of Joy, contact the Community Investment Network.

Photo credit: Alex Johnson III & National Center for Civil and Human Rights

National Trust for Historic Preservation Call for Nominations of African American Endangered Sites for the 2012 America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places List

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:40:00 +0000

Black History Month presents opportunity to highlight diverse historic places

Washington, D.C. – The National Trust for Historic Preservation recognizes the importance of preserving black history particularly during Black History Month and is calling for nominations of endangered African American sites for its 25th Anniversary list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places®. For a quarter century, this list has highlighted important examples of the nation’s architectural, cultural and natural heritage that are at risk for destruction or irreparable damage. Nominations are due on February 17, 2012. The 2012 list will be announced in June.

“Historic places are a tangible reminder of who we are as a nation,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “For 25 years, the National Trust’s list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places has helped shine a spotlight on threatened historic places throughout the nation, helping not only to preserve these places, but also galvanizing local support for the preservation of other unique, irreplaceable treasures that make our nation and local communities special.”

More than 200 threatened one-of-a-kind historic treasures have been identified on the list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places since 1988. Whether these sites are urban districts or rural landscapes, African American landmarks or 20th-century sports arenas, entire communities or single buildings, the list spotlights historic places across America that are facing a range of threats including insufficient funds, inappropriate development or insensitive public policy. The designation has been a powerful tool for raising awareness and rallying resources to save diverse endangered sites from every region of the country. At times, that attention has garnered public support to quickly rescue a treasured landmark; while in other instances, it has been the impetus of a long battle to save an important piece of our history.The list has been so successful in galvanizing preservation efforts across the country and rallying resources to save endangered places that, in just two decades, only eight sites have been lost.

The places on the list need not be famous, but they must be significant within their own cultural context, illustrate important issues in preservation and have a need for immediate action to stop or reverse serious threats. All nominations are subject to an extensive, rigorous vetting process.

For additional information, e-mailpr@nthp.org or call 202.588.6141. To learn more about the program and to submit a nomination, visit: www.PreservationNation.org/11Most.

In photo: The Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site in Washington, DC, named one of 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2001. Learn more about the restoration of Woodson's home and his organization which still exists today, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) at http://www.asalh.org/. Tickets are now available for ASALH's annual Black History Luncheon on Saturday, February 25th in Washington, DC.

About the National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately-funded nonprofit organization, works to save America’s historic places to enrich our future. PreservationNation.org Photo: National Park Service

Celebrity Philanthropy: Steve Harvey Adds the Title “Principal” To His List of Accomplishments

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:45:00 +0000

Box Tops for Education® and Steve Harvey team up awarding one lucky school 100,000 Box Tops and a special visit from Steve Harvey

Minneapolis, MN – Laughter literally filled the hallways of one Birmingham school, as they received a special visit from comedian, author and syndicated radio personality, Steve Harvey. Box Tops for Education enlisted the help of the Steve Harvey Morning Show to award one lucky school 100,000 Box Tops in the national Principal-for-a-Day contest. Phillips Academy’s principal, Mark Sullivan, had the pleasure of relinquishing his daily responsibilities, allowing Steve Harvey to serve as the school’s Principal.

The principal swap was the result of a nationwide essay contest, sponsored by General Mills’ Box Tops for Education. Listeners had the opportunity to write to the Steve Harvey Morning Show, explaining why their child’s school deserved the grand prize.

Angela Strozier’s eighth grade daughter attends Phillips Academy. She entered the contest expressing the additional support needed by Box Tops to assist her daughter’s school after devastating tornadoes hit the Birmingham area last April.

In addition to the visit by Steve Harvey, Phillips Academy was also awarded with 100,000 Box Tops valued at $10,000. The school will purchase computers, gym equipment and band uniforms as well as investing in additional teacher trainings and tutoring programs.

To learn more about Box Tops for Education visit http://www.btfe.com/.

About Box Tops for Education
America’s schools have earned more than $445 million through Box Tops for Education since the program started in 1996 including more than $67 million in 2011. Thousands of schools have used that cash to purchase items such as computers, library books, art supplies and playground equipment. Schools can earn up to $60,000 per year to spend on anything they choose, by clipping Box Tops coupons from hundreds of products and shopping online through the Box Tops Marketplace and Reading Room.

2012 Joyce Awards Grant Artists of Color to Make New Works in Four Midwest Cities

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

By Sandra Davis
Chicago Contributor

CHICAGO - The Joyce Foundation recently announced four winners of the prestigious 2012 Joyce Awards that commission artists of color to create new works with cultural institutions. The Joyce Awards recognize innovative, thought-provoking projects and come with a $50,000 grant. Winners were selected for artistic merit, audience engagement potential, and are commissioned in collaboration with an arts or cultural institution that contributes to a dynamic community engagement plan. In the past decade, the awards program has commissioned 32 new works from artists of color in partnership with the region's best cultural institutions.

The Joyce Foundation seeks to fund projects that bring diverse audiences together, and create common cultural experiences that encourage participants to see art as integral to their lives and communities. This year's winners will create projects in four Midwest cities; Chicago, Cleveland, Minneapolis/St. Paul and Indianapolis.

Beginning in 2013, the Joyce Awards program will open its application process, so that any nonprofit organization, not solely art institutions can apply to commission work and create a project with an artist of color. Annually, a minimum of four awards of $50,000 each will be granted.

Angelique Power (pictured), The Joyce Foundation's new senior program officer for Culture states, “The change we are making is because at Joyce we pay special attention to where artists are leading us. Artists have always evolved society by standing both within and outside of it. They ask hard questions, highlight what is commonly nuanced, and inspire us to think differently, see differently.

Artists (and arts institutions) are working in incredibly innovative ways within communities. They are interrupting daily life happenings with thoughtful, important work. They are confronting the Great Recession with art that is meant to change people’s lives. They are bringing together new communities through their projects.

By opening the Joyce Awards so that any nonprofit can apply to work with an artist of color on a new project that aims to change their block, their city, the world in some way we are not acting as revolutionaries – we are simply acknowledging the revolutionary work already being done – and trying to provide a cash reward large enough ($50,000) to help them change the game.”

To learn more about the 2012 winners and upcoming information sessions for the 2013 awards in Chicago, Indianapolis, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Detroit, Milwaukee and Cleveland, visit here.

The Root Spotlights the Nation’s Top Young African-American Trailblazers

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:56:00 +0000

Meet The 2012 Young Futurists Honorees

February 1, 2012 - (Washington, D.C.) – Blake Leeper: an athlete who is changing people’s perspectives on people with disabilities and who is vying to compete at the Paralympic Games this year in London. Adam Holland: a 16 year-old young capitalist who started a highly successful shaved ice business to help pay for his sister’s education. Adele Taylor: a 16 year-old who launched a book donation program called Adele’s Literacy Library that has distributed more than 5,000 books in her hometown. Today, leading African-American news site The Root unveiled this year’s 2012 Young Futurists List – an annual list spotlighting the top young African-American leaders and innovators of the future.

The Young Futurists are between the ages of 16 and 22 and are committed to making the world a better place in which to live. Each year, The Root conducts an open nomination process, seeking candidates who are not only achievers but also innovators in the worlds of green innovation, science and technology, arts and culture, social activism and business enterprise. Past Young Futurists have started non-profits and invented unique technologies, among other creative and praiseworthy ventures. Nominations are submitted from across the U.S. and only 25 are selected each year.

“The Young Futurists list honors trailblazing African-American leaders under 21 who will shape our future, our communities, and our daily conversations with work that matters,” said Managing Editor Sheryl Huggins Salomon. Their range of talent, drive and commitment is so inspiring and they are clearly having an impact on our lives and our communities.”

Other Young Futurists include green innovator Kendyl Crawley-Crawford, a 2012 Marshall Scholar who has traveled to the South Pacific to document environmental issues; Sydney Shaves, a 16 year-old who filmed a documentary “Elvira’s Eyes” that chronicles a genealogical journey through 106 years of her slave ancestor’s life; and Brandon Turner, a Wake Forest University senior whose investigation into the molecular structure of proteins for future drug development led him to be one of just 30 U.S. students named Rhodes scholars this year.

The 2012 Young Futurists list including biographies, photos, and details on why each honoree was selected can be found at www.theroot.com/young-futurists-2012.

About The Root
The Root is the top online source for news and original commentary from an African-American perspective. Founded in 2008 under the leadership of Prof. Henry Louis Gates Jr. of Harvard University, The Root offers a fresh take on breaking news, as well as solid analysis on politics, social issues and culture. The Root raises the profile of black voices in mainstream media and engages anyone interested in black culture around the world. The Root is owned by the Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO). Visit The Root at www.theroot.com, on Twitter @TheRoot247 and on Facebook.

Two Initiatives Aim to Increase Number of African Americans in Medicine

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:01:00 +0000

Tours for Diversity in Medicine to launch HBCU tour during Black History Month

The Aetna Foundation has awarded a $210,000 grant to Tours for Diversity in Medicine (TDM), a new initiative founded by former medical school students, to provide college students of color with a wide range of information and advice to plan for careers in medicine and dentistry, and ultimately diversify the health care profession. TDM is a project of Hip Hop Health Inc., that seeks to educate, inspire and cultivate future physicians of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds by forming local connections in order to fulfill a national need.

The inaugural tour will take 11 doctors, dentists and medical school students to five HBCUs in the south, providing premedical enrichment activities. According to the press release, although minority populations comprise more than 26 percent of the U.S. population, African Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans combined represent only about 6 percent of practicing physicians and 5 percent of dentists.

Alden Landry, M.D.(pictured left), an emergency room physician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and co-director of Tour for Diversity in Medicine, said, "Our goal is to increase interest in health care as careers for students from minority populations and help them overcome perceived barriers to medical and dental school, such as high tuition costs, long training and a challenging application process. By offering workshops with established health care practitioners from similar backgrounds to theirs, we believe we can open the pipeline for talented young people of color who can make a significant difference in improving health care in the U.S."

Participating schools and tour dates are: Monday, February 20 at Hampton University, Hampton, Va.; Tuesday, February 21 at Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, N.C.; Wednesday, February 22 at South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, S.C.; Thursday, February 23 at Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Ala.; and Friday, February 24 at Jackson State University, Jackson, Miss.

Kameron Matthews, M.D. (pictured right), J.D., co-director of the Tour for Diversity in Medicine and a family physician in Chicago stated, "without the assistance of mentors over the years, I would not be a doctor today. We want to connect students with physicians and dentists who are dedicated to their growth and their future."

Gillian Barclay, D.D.S., Dr.P.H., vice president of the Aetna Foundation said, "As our nation's population becomes increasingly diverse, we need health care providers who have the cultural competency to engage their patients fully with their treatment and ensure good health outcomes. Multiplying the number of men and women from underrepresented minorities is a fundamental strategy to achieving health equity in the United States. The Aetna Foundation is pleased to be the Tour's founding sponsor and support this innovative initiative as part of our portfolio of programs aimed at developing health care leaders from underrepresented communities."

Follow Landry, Matthews and other health care providers during the week long tour via Facebook and Twitter @Tour4Diversity. For more information on TDM and to register for the free tour, visit http://www.tour4diversity.org/.

Physicians Medical Forum Hosts Day-Long Conference to Recruit African American Students to Attend Medical School and Practice in the Oakland/San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California

Pre-med, University/College & Post-baccalaureate Students and High School Seniors Invited to Participate on Saturday, Feb. 18th

The Physicians Medical Forum (PMF) is an initiative that aims to increase the number of African American physicians, residents and medical students in the Oakland/San Francisco Bay and Northern California, while helping to improve the delivery of culturally competent medical care to better meet the health care needs of African Americans and the community at-large. On Saturday, February 18th, the organization will host its annual "Doctors on Board Program," a day-long, tuition-free, information-filled series of seminars, workshops and case studies to encourage and increase the number of black students attending medical school.

Several of the Bay Area’s most prominent physicians and medical school representatives will provide students with an innovative and exciting opportunity to explore varied facets of medicine and provide information about medical school preparation, medical specialties, and life as a physician. Upon completion of the program, students will be awarded certificates with a reception immediately following.

Dr. Albert L. Brooks, PMF President and Chief of Medical Services at Washington Hospital in Fremont, California said, "I am proud to be a part of the Physician's Medical Forum, and look forward to meeting and mentoring young African American students who aspire to become doctors. It is rewarding to know that so many physicians from throughout Northern California are donating their time to encourage young minds to consider attending medical school."

There is no cost to participate. Students who wish to take part in this groundbreaking, one-day program must submit the Student Application found here.

BET Networks Talks Teens and Parenting with Special “106 & PARK” Episode of “Young, Single and Parenting”

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:45:00 +0000

Airs Monday, January 30th, 6pm EST with special guest appearances

NEW YORK - On Monday, January 30, “106 & PARK” will air a special episode dedicated to young parents titled “Young, Single & Parenting.” The live, 90-minute special will deal exclusively with issues affecting young parents focusing specifically on the realities of African American youth.

Hosted by Terrence J and Rocsi (pictured), “106 & PARK Presents: Young, Single & Parenting” will speak directly to youths in the trenches – young people who are currently parents and those expecting. Participants will be informed of the responsibilities they can expect, the resources available and their rights as parents.

“We are proud of our place as the only daily source of Black Youth culture on television and we know it’s about more than music, celebrities and fun,” said Stephen Hill, BET’s President of Music Programming and Specials. “On 106 & PARK, we’ve taken the time to discuss relationship violence, teen body image issues, AIDS prevention and other topics relevant to our audience. Many in our audience are young parents and need more information and guidance than they’re getting about how to work through certain issues; not the least of which is working on the relationship with the other parent for the benefit of the child. It’s our hope that this special edition of 106 & PARK will help strengthen young families,” said Hill.

On “Young, Single and Parenting” viewers will hear live testimonials from young, single parents in the studio audience. Rappers Don Trip and Tray Chaney, both young parents, will join the show to discuss their videos – Trip’s “Letter to My Son” feat. Cee-Lo Green and Chaney's “Fatherhood.” In-studio experts, Dr. Michelle (http://www.drmichelle.com/) and Dr. Tartt (http://www.drtartt.com/), will be on hand to answer questions submitted via a live online chat on BET.com/YSPTips.

In addition to answering questions live, viewers can join the conversation by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:

On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/BET106andPark
On Twitter by using hash tags: #YoungSingleParent; follow the show for all updates @106andPark and @BET.
On Google plus at bet.us/gplus106

For more information on 106 & PARK Presents: "Young, Single & Parenting", visit BET.com/106Cares. Source & photo: Press release

Mentoring Brothers in Action: Historically Black Fraternities Elevate Partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters to Change the Odds for African-American Boys

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Popular Nationally Syndicated Urban Radio Host Michael Baisden Challenges Other Radio Hosts, Celebrities, Corporations and Influencers to Step Up

Atlanta launch event scheduled February 10

In observance of National Mentoring Month and the Martin Luther King Day of Service, Big Brothers Big Sisters and its African American Fraternity Partnership launched Mentoring Brothers in Action, the second phase of their two-year collaborative partnership. According to the press release, the goal of the program is to engage more African American men in fraternal, social, faith-based and professional organizations to get involved in one-to-one mentoring to change the odds for African American boys. Supporting this initiative is popular nationally syndicated urban radio host, Michael Baisden.

“Like so many of our young men, my father also abandoned me so I understand the importance of mentoring. I was fortunate to have uncles and other men in my community to set the right example and to correct me when I was out of line,” said Baisden. “If we want to see different results in our young people we have to invest more into them and show them what is possible. I became a successful writer because I saw successful writers; I became a successful radio personality because I saw successful radio personalities, and so on. If we want to create more successful children we need them to see an example of success and integrity. Success is not an accident, it's something you practice every day in the way you live your life and the way you treat people. Become a mentor today and be that example!”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Co-Chief Executive Officer Max Miller states, “with Mentoring Brothers in Action, we are working with our fraternity partners, bolstered by the support of Michael Baisden -- one of the most prominent and passionate proponents of mentoring -- to bring together our best resources to tackle one of the nation’s most urgent crises. Our goal is to have a positive impact on high school graduation, juvenile justice and economic equity.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters expects Mentoring Brothers in Action to create new and broader pathways to provide mentors for African American boys who disproportionately represent children waiting to be matched with Big Brothers. Participating fraternities include Kappa Alpha Psi, Alpha Phi Alpha and Omega Psi Phi.

Among the initiative’s 2012 activities:

The launch of MentoringBrothers.org, a unique website and social media effort that will enable African American men to be the impetus for dramatically changing the odds for African American boys across the nation. Initially developed by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America as an African American male mentor recruiting tool, the revamped MentoringBrothers.org will serve as the nation’s central source for in-depth, interactive mentoring resources.

The Mentoring Brothers in Action National Summit: Michael Baisden will headline this Big Brothers Big Sisters summit February 10 in Atlanta, where invited guests include education and mentoring experts; mentors, mentees and supporters. For more information and to RSVP, visit here.

Additional activities include fraternity chapters partnering with local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies to host “friend raisers,” barbershop recruiting drives, Bowl for Kids Sake fundraisers, and other efforts to engage more African American men in mentoring; and supporting fraternity partners in demonstrating measurable outcomes for children who participate in their unique service initiatives and programs, such as Kappa Alpha Psi’s Guide Right, Omega Psi Phi’s Operation Lamp Light and Alpha Phi Alpha’s Project Alpha.

“Mentoring Brothers in Action takes our two-year partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters to the next level. In a powerful demonstration of unity and a deep collective concern for our communities, we are taking accountability for ensuring that African American boys achieve in school and succeed in life. MentoringBrothers.org utilizes the strength of technology and social media, powered by Big Brothers Big Sisters and its longstanding proven mentoring success, to engage African American men across the country to take the lead in changing the odds for our boys,” said Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. President Dr. Andrew A. Ray.

To learn more about the African American Fraternity Partnership and its progress to date, visit http://www.mentoringbrothers.org/ and http://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org/.

Apollo Theater Celebrates Black History Month with Wide-Ranging Programs in February 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:34:00 +0000

Apollo Amateur Night 2012 Season Opens with “Dream” Guest Star Jennifer Holliday

Apollo Open House Weekend with Free Community Sing Event Led by 10-time Grammy Winners Take 6

New York, NY— This February, the world famous Apollo Theater will host a series of wide-ranging artistic and community programming to celebrate Black History Month. Throughout its history, the Apollo has consistently been a model of innovation and excellence, and a creative catalyst for Harlem, the city of New York, and the nation. This year’s Black History Month programming includes the return of the Apollo’s signature show, Amateur Night, with a new digital twist; the popular emerging artist concert series Music Café; an Open House Weekend; representing the range and vibrancy of the Theater’s offerings.

Highlights of the Apollo’s February programming include:

Apollo Amateur Night 2012 Opening Night - The 2012 season of the Apollo Theater’s signature weekly live show, Amateur Night, kicks off with several surprises marking the Theater’s 78th birthday, as well as a “dream” special guest performance by the original Dreamgirl– Jennifer Holliday. Wednesday, February 1st, 7:30pm

Amateur Night Digital – The Apollo Theater launches a digital extension of its signature show, giving global audiences the opportunity to vote on their favorite Amateur Night contestants. Wednesday, February 1. http://www.apollotheater.org/

FREE Open House Weekend - The Apollo Theater will open its doors to give members of the Harlem community, New York City residents and tourists alike a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the Apollo’s rich history, as well as the non-profit Theater’s current activities. The weekend activities highlight: upcoming Apollo performances events and cultural program of other local organizations, film clips and shorts on Apollo history, self-guided tour of the historic theatre, exhibition panels on Apollo theatre history, health screenings and cultural fair and information booths with cultural and community partners. Billy Mitchell, the Apollo Theater Ambassador is on hand throughout the weekend sharing Apollo history. Friday’s events to feature a special Community Sing with 10-time Grammy Award winning a cappella sextet Take 6, presented in collaboration with Carnegie Hall’s Neighborhood Concert Series. Friday, February 3rd through Sunday, February 6th

NOTE: Tickets to Community Sing are free but RSVP is required. RSVP at http://www.apollotheater.org/take6 or at the Apollo Theater Box Office. 4 tickets per individual or 12 tickets per organization. (Organizations will need to bring an official letter to the box office when picking up tickets.)

Apollo Music Café - Set in a club-like atmosphere on the Apollo Theater’s intimate, newly renovated Soundstage, Apollo Music Café is a showcase for emerging artists. The 2012 season’s opening weekend features up-and-coming innovators including: Left of Acoustic, Right of Soul featuring Candice Anitra and Jeremy Jones, and culminates with Hip-Hop Revolutionized featuring Bugnana sand MC Invincible. Friday, February 10th & Saturday, February 11th. Both shows begin at 10 pm (doors at 9pm).

For more information on these events and the Apollo Theater, visit http://www.apollotheater.org/.

Corporate sponsors include Target, Aetna and Heineken. The Apollo's annual season is made possible by lead support from The Coca-Cola Company, The Parsons Family Foundation, the Ronald O. Perelman Family Foundation, the Edward and Leslye Phillips Family Foundation, the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, Reginald Van Lee, the Ford Foundation, Bloomberg, and the Neuberger Berman Foundation.

Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum Hosts 27th Annual MLK Program in Washington, DC

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Omicron Eta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. pose for a photograph with Smithsonian Assistant Secretary for Education and Access Claudine K. Brown, Anacostia Community Museum Director Camille Akeju, keynote speaker Harry E. Johnson, Sr., BlackGivesBack.com founder Tracey Webb, and others during the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum's 27th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Program.

On Friday, January 13th, the Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum held its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Program to a standing room only crowd at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC. The featured speaker for the program was Harry E. Johnson Sr., president and CEO of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation. I had the honor of serving as the moderator for the Q&A discussion following his keynote, and I’d like to thank the wonderful staff of the museum, Maria N. Smith and Jenelle Cooper Tolson for the invitation!

The program began with a rousing step performance from the Omicron Eta Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the fraternity to which King belonged. Johnson began his engaging keynote by sharing that the vision for the memorial was birthed from five Alpha fraternity brothers while sitting at a kitchen table. A few highlights from his keynote included the challenges he initially encountered in raising the funds needed to build the memorial, the controversy surrounding the choice of a Chinese sculptor, and the acknowledgment of Robert Stanton in the audience, who was the first African American director of the National Park Service. (Listen to Johnson’s keynote here).Under Johnson's leadership, the foundation raised the $120 million needed to complete the memorial, which garnered support from all living Presidents, Congress, corporate and nonprofit communities and celebrities.

The Omicron Eta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

During the Q&A session, one of the questions I asked Mr. Johnson was among the major contributors, who were the prominent African American donors? In addition to the generous gift from philanthropist Sheila Johnson, he mentioned Victor MacFarlane, a real estate investor who donated $1 million through his investment company, MacFarlane Partners. Johnson shared that it didn’t worry him about who didn’t donate to the memorial, for it was “all of the people who donated $5 and $10 that made a million.”

The Anacostia Community Museum was opened in southeast Washington in 1967 as the nation's first federally funded neighborhood museum. Renamed in 2006, it has expanded its focus beyond African American culture to documenting, interpreting and collecting objects related to the impact of historical and contemporary social issues on communities. Visit the website for information on upcoming programs and exhibitions at anacostia.si.edu. Photos courtesy of Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum

The Washington Post Examines Black Women’s Experiences and Perspectives

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:20:00 +0000

Series to Include a Community Forum on February 29th, New Poll Results, and Multimedia

WASHINGTON, DC — Black women are far more likely than white women to place importance on career success and are less inclined to focus on having children or being in a romantic relationship, according to a new, nationwide survey by The Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation. This is the first story in a series looking at black women's experiences and perspectives and can be read HERE.

Here are highlights of the latest poll findings:

About two-thirds of the black women who participated in the survey consider being successful in their careers very important
About three in four value living a religious life and worry about having enough money to pay their bills
67% describe themselves as having high self esteem
46% see the nation's economic system as stacked against blacks

The next story in the series will be published Tuesday, January 24 and captures how First Lady Michelle Obama's impact on black women and looks at how she has changed overall impressions of black women in America. In the coming weeks and months, The Post will also explore how black women assess their self-image and the impact of the economic recession on their finances.

In addition, The Post will host a panel discussion in partnership with Howard University’s Women as Change Agents titled “Through the Looking Glass: Black Women in America.” The event will take place on Wednesday, February 29 at Howard University’s Blackburn Center beginning at 6:30pm. The discussion will be led by Michelle Singletary, nationally syndicated Personal Finance Columnist for The Washington Post. To RSVP or to submit a question for the panel, please e-mail behindtheheadlines@washpost.com. Photo: The Washington Post

Young Voters Hit D.C. for 2nd Annual State of the Union Online Watch Party, #BarackTalk

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The League of Young Voters Partners with Rock the Vote and AllHipHop.com for Viewing Party and Panel Discussion

Washington, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 24th, national non-profit organization the League Of Young Voters Education Fund (LYVEF), AllHipHop.com and Rock The Vote will host their second annual #BarackTalk, a State of the Union round table discussion and watch party. The event will broadcast live from Busboys and Poets, one of our capitol’s cultural hotspots, at 5th and K in Washington, D.C. at 7:30 p.m. EST. #BarackTalk will livestream on YoungVoterLive.com for viewers to watch and engage in conversation with the panelists.

#BarackTalk will kick off with a series of panel discussions about the biggest issues facing Millennials before the 2012 presidential election. The party begins when President Barack Obama starts his fourth State of the Union address, and will conclude with analysis and discussion by some of the best and brightest minds in entertainment and politics.

The panelists include Goldie Taylor, leading news correspondent (TheGrio.com, MSNBC); Chuck Creekmur, influential urban entertainment journalist and co-founder of AllHipHop.com; Michael Skolnick of GlobalGrind.com; Andreas Hale of TheWellVersed; rapper Dee-1 and many more. Each speaker was selected because of his/her proven ability to engage with young people and spark conversations that resonate.

During the #BarackTalk discussions, participants can directly engage with panelists to ask questions via Ustream at http://www.youngvoterlive.com/ and LYVEF’s Twitter handle, @TheLeague99. Viewers asking questions on Twitter are encouraged to use the hashtag #BarackTalk.

In 2011, the first #BarackTalk State of the Union Event went viral, with the #BarackTalk Twitter hashtag trending locally in Washington, D.C. and New Orleans, LA.

As an ongoing mission, the League of Young Voters Education Fund and AllHipHop.com will be partnering to promote civic engagement among low-income youth of color throughout the 2012 presidential election.

For more information on the State of the Union viewing event and details surrounding the President’s address, please visit http://www.youngvoterlive.com/.

Jeep and Atlanta Chapter, Tuskegee Airmen provide historic background to "Red Tails" premiere in Atlanta

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Tuskegee Airmen attend the “Red Tails” premiere on January 10, 2012 in New York City. Photo: Coppola/Getty

By Lisa Brathwaite
Atlanta Contributor

On Thursday, January 12, 2012, the Atlanta Chapter, Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., with Jeep sponsorship hosted an advance screening of "Red Tails," the George Lucas film that tells the story of the first Black pilots and their supporting ground crew in the U.S. military.

Held at the AMC Southlake 24 in the metro Atlanta suburb of Morrow, the event was a fundraiser for the Atlanta Chapter, Tuskegee Airmen, as well as a viewing for "key influencers" who were encouraged to promote opening weekend attendance when the film hits screens nationwide today, January 20th.

Among the esteemed guests in attendance were Tuskegee Airmen, descendants of Tuskegee Airmen, and two original Red Tails. Bob Friend, a Red Tail who enlisted in 1942, was among those men who received a standing ovation of reverence for their service. “Red Tails” was the nickname taken on by the pilots who chose to be identified by the bold color they painted the backs of their fighter planes.

The movie stars Terrence Howard, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Atlanta’s own Ne-Yo, and features a cast of familiar and new faces. Jeep also figures prominently in the film, sharing the screen at times with the handsome ensemble. In 1941, leading up to U.S. involvement in World War II, a call went out from the Army to American automakers to build a fast, agile and versatile transport vehicle. Jeep answered the call and produced more than 630,000 Jeep vehicles that were used by U.S. military and their allies. Jeeps kept them moving forward on land while above the Tuskegee Airmen changed the outcome of virtually every battle in which they participated.

Atlanta Chapter, Tuskegee Airmen president Zellie Orr addressed the crowd before the film’s start, imploring, “This is an awesome film. Please tell at least four people to go out and see it.”

Watch the trailer, be inspired and please make plans to see the film this weekend. The funding to bring such stories from our experience to the screen tomorrow hinges on your support demonstrated for films like this today.

Photos of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:30:00 +0000

The Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc. honored Dr. King’s birthday by laying a wreath at the foot of the Stone of Hope at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall, January 16th.

Since its opening, over 2 million visitors from around the globe have been able to witness firsthand the message of hope, justice, democracy and love that resonates from the crescent-shaped walls of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, which proudly sits between two Presidents.

The free program featured remarks from Harry E. Johnson, president and CEO of The Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation; the Rev. Al Sharpton, president of National Action Network and host of MSNBC's PoliticsNation and Robert G. Stanton, senior advisor to the Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. Source: Press release

Hempstead, NY- On December 19, 2011, 100 Black Men of Long Island, Inc., Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. and the Jewish Relations Council of Long Island collaborated by holding a joint press conference to raise awareness and combat health care issues that are prevalent on Long Island. Announced was the formation of an ongoing partnership to improve the quality of health for Long Islanders and encourage early prevention, education and health care initiatives. Immediately following the press conference, 100 Black Men held its annual holiday party that featured a toy and canned food drive. Photo courtesy of 100 Black Men of Long Island

Oprah Winfrey celebrates with the first graduating class of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa on January 14th, 2012.

Musical guest Janelle Monáe and special guest Hill Harper at President Barack Obama's Victory 2012 Concert, January 11th at UIC in Chicago. Photo by Christopher Dilts for Obama for America.

The Insider: Jackie Jenkins-Scott, President of Wheelock College

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Our latest Insider, Jackie Jenkins-Scott, is on a mission to improve the lives of children and families as the President of Wheelock College, a private institution in Boston that has grown to become a national and world leader in higher education, preparing early childhood educators.

Since her appointment as president in 2004, Jenkins-Scott has strengthened the College's core undergraduate and graduate academic programs, enhanced the undergraduate experience, and expanded the College’s reach internationally. She has been a passionate advocate in fulfilling the unique and compelling mission of the College.

Jenkins-Scott’s strong belief in international engagement and civic involvement led to the establishment of the highly successful International Visiting Scholars program which brings to campus scholars from all over the world, and the International Service Learning Program which provides Wheelock Students with opportunities for short-term international service experiences. A new civic engagement focus created a ten-year commitment to rebuilding New Orleans that includes twice annual trips of students and faculty to the city.

In November 2011, the College announced an 80 million dollar capital campaign, the largest capital fundraiser in the school’s history.

Jenkins-Scott has served on many professional, civic, and community boards. She currently serves on the board of directors of The Boston Foundation, The Kennedy Library Foundation and Museum, Schott Foundation, Tufts Health Plan, and Century Bank.

Read on to learn more about the College’s capital campaign, how Wheelock College supports Boston youth and first-generation college students and her greatest career lesson.

Hometown: Damascus, Arkansas

Education: BS, Eastern Michigan University; Masters of Social Work, Boston University School of Social Work; and completed a Post Graduate Research Fellowship at Radcliffe College. Received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Education from Wheelock College in 2003 and holds Honorary Doctorate Degrees from Suffolk University, Northeastern University, Bentley College, and Mount Ida College.

Last year you announced Wheelock College's 80 million capital campaign, the largest capital fundraising initiative in the school's history. What are your plans to achieve this milestone?

Our goal for this comprehensive campaign is to increase our annual giving and receive special gifts. We also plan to expand our funding from foundations and corporations.

With the campaign, we are introducing the Five Transformational Firsts: the first scholarship endowment; the first endowed professorships to support ongoing development of our professors; the first endowed fund for innovation; the first endowed fund for technology enhancement and innovation, and the first fund for facilities and a sustainable campus environment. To date we have raised $53 million toward our capital campaign.

It is impossible for any institution to remain competitive without technology. We are doing the things that an institution, in a very competitive Boston environment, needs to do to remain in the forefront.

Your website states that 51% of the class of 2013 is the first in their families to attend college. What special support do you provide these students to ensure they complete their education?

Students come with complex issues. We continually assess how we are utilizing all of our resources to advance our students both academically and socially. With the awareness that the first two years of college are critical to a student’s success, we track the GPA’s of our freshmen. This helps us identify potentially at risk students. They attend a one-on-one academic counseling meeting to help us identify areas where they may need additional support. We offer a bridge program, essentially a nine-week academic boot camp that provides assistance in the areas where the student may be struggling. The program has been so successful that we have extended it to second year college students as well. We are seeing great results with the high rate of graduating students.

Jenkins-Scott (center) with Harvard Law School Professor Charles J. Ogletree, Jr. and actor and author Hill Harper at a Wheelock College Youth Symposium, October 2010.

Please share more about Wheelock College’s Youth Symposium for middle and high school age youth. Why is it important to host this event?

The Youth Symposium represents a natural complement to Wheelock's core mission “to improve the lives of children and families.” Several years ago, as a part of that mission, we established an office of Pre-Collegiate and College Access Programs to assist urban youth with achieving college access and success. Our work is part of a national movement toward widening college access, and more importantly, ensuring that students who enter college also graduate - prepared for both further study and fulfilling careers.

Wheelock College presented its first Youth Symposium in 2007. The symposium featured Bishop Desmond Tutu, and focused on Forgiveness and Reconciliation. After the event, a number of participants started a group called SPARK the Truth, dedicated to nonviolent, peaceful coexistence for young people in Boston. With the help of that group and the Pre-Collegiate Office, nearly 5000 young people have attended subsequent events on the Wheelock campus focused on leadership development, mentoring, social justice, academic support, coursework and college success planning.

What are the biggest lessons you've learned in your career?

I have to say that the most important lesson I have learned throughout my career is to surround myself with the best talent I can possibly find and trust my instincts.

Anything else you'd like to share?

More than a century ago, Lucy Wheelock dared to open a new school in Boston in 1888 to prepare young women to teach kindergarten – a revolutionary educational idea at the time. She believed that the best way to improve the lives of children and families was through education. As Wheelock College approaches its 125th anniversary in 2013, we have many accomplishments to celebrate.

We offer a strong human services and child life program, juvenile justice, and policy – in all 18,000 graduates dedicated to making a difference in the world. All of our programs are based around the lens of impact to children and families including our new communications and global political science program.

What makes Wheelock special is that everyone who comes here is committed to the mission of improving the lives of children and families. The mission is very clear throughout the institution. Students come here committed to change. While the mission is specific, it is also very broad as to where the students’ passions will lead them. We help them uncover their true passions. Their passion can take them to be leaders of nonprofit organizations, being involved in social work, social justice, policy work, etc. Whatever they choose, they leave this College on a professional track.

Visit the Wheelock College website at http://www.wheelock.edu/.

Photo credits: Boston.com; Wikipedia

Hip Hop Artist Common Hosts 2012 AT&T 28 Day Speaker Series

noreply@blogger.com (Tracey) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:35:00 +0000

Hip hop artist, actor and author Common, returns as the host of AT&T's 28 Day Speaker Series. He is pictured with Cookie Johnson, wife of Magic Johnson.

Annual Black History Month campaign adds four new cities to series lineup

Launched in 2009, AT&T 28 Day Speaker Series returns in 2012 with a seven-city speaker series tour that aims to motivate consumers to activate their voices, share their vision and move into action this February and throughout the year.

“We are now in the fourth year of AT&T 28 Days and we continue to recognize past achievements while engaging and challenging consumers to make their own history today,” said Jennifer Jones, vice president of Diverse Markets, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “We want to connect with consumers, especially youth, in relevant ways and extend the AT&T 28 Days live experience into new markets.”

The speaker series, which kicked off on January 16th in Dallas, includes a few of today’s influential and respectful leaders offering their views on how consumers can shape their future.

Speakers on the tour include: Holly Robinson Peete, actress, author and activist; Wednesday, Feb. 1 in Oakland (streamed live); Kevin Powell, political activist and author of Barack Obama, Ronald Reagan, and The Ghost of Dr. King; Wednesday, Feb. 8 in Raleigh, N.C.; Mario Armstrong, tech commentator and digital lifestyle expert; Wednesday, Feb. 15 in Washington, D.C. (streamed live); Jeff Johnson, social activist and political commentator; Monday, Feb. 20 in Cleveland, Ohio; Desiree Rogers, innovative leader and bold visionary; Thursday, Feb. 23 in Chicago (streamed live); and Michael Eric Dyson, author, scholar and cultural critic; Wednesday, Feb. 29 in Detroit.

“I am glad to return as host of the AT&T 28 Days speaker series. AT&T 28 Days is a movement, and it feels good to be a part of something that has the potential to shape our future and move us forward as a people,” said Common.

The AT&T 28 Days is just one of the ways AT&T continues its commitment to empowering the diverse communities it serves. Events are free and open to the public. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about AT&T 28 Days, AT&T's Black History Month programs and to reserve tickets, visit www.att.com/28days.

Source: Press release