Black philanthropy stands as a transformative force for addressing racial and economic inequities. It is about providing more than monetary support. It redefines narratives and empowers individuals to create systemic change through education, wealth redistribution, and economic development. Orsella Hughes One of the most powerful aspects of Black philanthropy is its focus on education — not just academic, but an education of self. Black people have long been part of systems that marginalize them, and Black philanthropy offers a path to reclaim identity and address generational trauma that is rooted in slavery. By fostering these practices, like financial literacy and teaching self-sufficiency, Black-led philanthropy empowers our community to create rather than simply participate in an existing system. Historically, charity has been associated with asking for help, but Black philanthropy shifts the focus to becoming creators of solutions. The wealth gap within our communities is the product of systemic exclusion, which has left families without the tools for financial security. However, this gap is not simply an economic issue. It’s also a reflection of the mental health crisis that stems from centuries of oppression. The role of Black philanthropy is to address this gap by advancing financial literacy and promoting collective empowerment within all our community. Black-led philanthropic organizations are at the forefront of closing these wealth and education gaps. They provide vital resources for grassroots efforts, such as grants for capacity-building and program development, helping local organizations better serve their communities. However, larger philanthropic institutions must do more than offer financial support. These institutions need to fully understand and engage with the communities they aim to help, going beyond superficial contributions and addressing the systemic issues at play. Education is a key battleground for addressing broader economic and social disparities. Black philanthropic organizations understand that closing the educational gap requires more than money — it demands systemic change. Representation is crucial. Decision-makers who share the values, ethics, and lived experiences of our communities must be in positions of power to ensure lasting, equitable outcomes in education. I believe that Black philanthropy plays such a vital role in redistributing wealth within underserved communities. The concept of “reaching back” is a cornerstone of this work that we do at The Prosperity Foundation, as the only Black-owned, Black-led and Black-serving community foundation in the state of Connecticut. As individuals rise, they are responsible for helping others within their community. This collective uplift ensures that the gains made by one are shared by many, creating a sustainable model for addressing financial disparities. In the end, Black philanthropy has the potential to grow beyond its current state. We have been philanthropists since the beginning of time, even if it wasn’t named as such. As more people recognize the impact of Black philanthropy, it will continue to challenge the status quo, build power within the Black community, and create a legacy of self-empowerment and economic freedom. The journey may be long, but as the saying goes: How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.  Black philanthropy is taking deliberate steps to bridge the gaps in the Black community, and with strategic partnerships and intentional collaboration, its impact will only grow stronger. Orsella Hughes is the Executive Director of The Prosperity Foundation.