CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Philanthropy has become a key part of making communities in Charlotte more equitable for everyone. How people give to different causes is just as diverse as the Queen City itself.
Kayla Davis, a freshman at Central Piedmont Community College, is able to continue her studies thanks in part to a scholarship she got from First Gen Success, a nonprofit led by Black women helping first-generation college students from families of color succeed.
"It had a big impact on my life," Davis said. "It empowered me and helped me get through a lot of struggles that I had."
Tameka Beavers is the executive director of First Gen Success, and she said most of the donations to the newly-formed nonprofit have come from individuals. However, the contributions go beyond a dollar amount. Donors also grant advice and mentorship to the people they help.
Valaida Fullwood, the founder of New Generation of African American Philanthropists (NGAAP), said that kind of combination of mentorship and donations is very common among Black-run nonprofits. It's a trend she's seen in the 15-year history of NGAAP, which has helped funnel $1.4 million into the Charlotte community with volunteering, research, grantmaking, and innovative initiatives. NGAAP has also awarded grants to 15 Black-founded nonprofits in the area.
"While of course writing checks and giving is vital, we bring more than that," Fullwood said. "Our checks may not have as many zeroes behind the dollar signs because of the wealth gap in our community, but there’s additional potency in our financial gifts because we bring more than just the check – that includes our time and our talent.”
Fullwood said it's beneficial for everyone to give to causes that benefit the community, and it should be an inclusive experience for everyone who wants to help.
"For younger generations, you can’t be what you don’t see and so many stories and images around philanthropy are really centered on the ultra-wealthy," Fullwood said. "We need to acknowledge the range of people that can give and have an impact on the community. Philanthropy isn’t just the dollars -- it’s also love of community, love of humankind, what it means to be human.”
Davis couldn't agree more. Her scholarship is being used to help fund her nursing degree, a career she says will help give back in her own way.
First Gen Success was started in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, but they're already working with their second cohort of girls. Nearly a dozen scholarships have been awarded to high school seniors who come from low-income families and are set to be the first to go to college. If you'd like to donate or volunteer your time, click here.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to the Defenders team by emailing money@wcnc.com.
Contact Michelle at mboudin@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.