For Black Philanthropy Month 2020, we’re sharing stories of our giving circle members on why they joined Black Benefactors.

Meet Jalisa Whitley, a six-year member who works in philanthropy.

“I am so proud to be a six-year member of Black Benefactors. I joined as a graduate student at the University of Maryland where I first learned that the world of philanthropy existed. Learning about large scale institutional philanthropy, I was interested in learning how I could have a multiplier effect with my small monetary resources. Being new to the field I didn’t want to just give dollars, but I wanted to learn and be in community with others. I got more than I bargained for. I say this often, but this circle has become an intentional family.

We not only pool our resources, time, and talents, but we have deep and values-based conversations around investing in Black leadership in Washington, DC. This focus is especially critical during a global pandemic that is disproportionately impacting our community and a critical moment where movements for Black liberation are reaching the mainstream. The opportunity to pool my relatively small gifts to make impactful grants to organizations I believe in are an important part of the contribution I am able to make to my community.

In July we were able to invest $25,000 in three Black-led organizations in DC using a process that didn’t require jumping through hoops – we didn’t require an application and intentionally invested in our past grantees to deepen our relationships and support of them.  We were able to act quickly, nimbly, and flexibly in ways that I don’t often get the chance to do in my institutional philanthropy work.

Black Benefactors provides the opportunity to live out my values in practice and lead with love. I am forever grateful for this group.” 

Black Philanthropy Month is an annual, global campaign observed in August to elevate African descent giving. Learn more at www.blackphilanthropymonth.com.