On May 22 we welcomed Reggie Van Lee, philanthropist, arts advocate and patron, and retired executive vice president of Booz Allen as the guest speaker for our 2018 Dinner Series. Black Benefactors members and guests participated in a robust discussion moderated by BB founding member Edward Jones on black philanthropy, diversity in the arts and supporting black-led organizations.
Here are some highlights from Reggie’s giving story:
- Giving back was instilled by his parents and church. His father told him that we are put on this earth to be of service to others.
- Reggie prioritizes his giving to black-led nonprofits and capacity building is a strong interest. He shared the story of supporting a nonprofit by paying for a grant writer to help with fundraising.
- He believes in the transformative notion of the arts and the importance of diversifying the field. Among the organizations he has supported with funding, board service and volunteerism are Dance Theater of Harlem, Howard Theater, Washington Performing Arts and the National Museum of African American History & Culture.
- A lesson learned from his past giving was that he didn’t trust his instincts. He questioned the integrity of the project’s leaders, but believed in the mission.
- On board service, he identifies opportunities where his money can make a significant difference and where he can add unique value with his time, talent and treasure.
- The 4 C’s he lives by: Courage, Confidence, Competence and Community.
- Currently writing a memoir that will have a chapter titled “Black Philanthropy Beyond the Church.”
@BlkBenefactors: Speaking about #philanthropy and #impact, @ReggieVanLee notes how he gives to issues and causes going through change. “I went to the places were I thought I could make a difference.” #BBdinner #BlackPhilanthropy #GivingBack pic.twitter.com/bGWjX6yhFK
— T’Sey-Haye Preaster (@RISunshine) May 23, 2018
The four key C’s to success: courage, confidence, competence, and community. And remember: “Confidence is nothing unless you’re competent” – Reggie Van Lee. #bbdinner
— Jalisa Whitley (@JalisaNichole) May 23, 2018
A guest shared, “It was great to attend and I am very excited to have been a part. What really resonated with me is his personality and attitude to get visions accomplished. I met several people from some great organizations like Founder Christopher Bradshaw of Dreaming Out Loud and was honored to share the table and enjoy some great eats with George Collins, founder of African American Fire Fighters Historical Society. What a night! Myself being in the philanthropist field I felt at home, especially being around such great influences in the same room and break bread with. Overall I had an awesome night, it was truly an event that I will attend again, and definitely looking forward to working with and attending more Black Benefactors events.” — Alberto Soto
Among the organizations that attended were Washington Performing Arts, Prince George’s African American Museum and Cultural Center, African American Firefighters Museum, Chess Girls DC, Dreaming Out Loud, Adventure Theatre Musical Theater Center, Jack and Jill Foundation, Venture Philanthropy Partners, Consumer Health Foundation, Thelma D. Jones Breast Cancer Fund and Us Helping Us.
View more photos on our Facebook page. For more information on our Dinner Series, visit here.
