The Soul of Philanthropy Akron

On a crisp November evening in Akron, the spirit of generosity took center stage. The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Awards unfolded as a powerful celebration of Black philanthropy, honoring eight local changemakers whose lives and leadership have transformed Summit County. More than just an awards ceremony, the event launched a season-long tribute to the legacy of Black giving, culminating in a dynamic exhibit at the Akron Art Museum.

The Exhibit

The national touring exhibit The Soul of Philanthropy was created by Valaida Fullwood, inspired by her book "Giving Back: A Tribute to Generations of African American Philanthropists." Through photography, storytelling and personal narratives, the exhibit highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black individuals and communities, showing philanthropy not as the domain of the wealthy, but as an act of love, service and community-building.

From Nov. 15, 2025, through Feb. 14, 2026, the Akron Art Museum will host this transformative national exhibit alongside a local component featuring Akron's own philanthropists. The exhibit will be available to experience for free in the lobby of the museum.

The Awards

Held on Nov. 14, 2025, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Awards recognized eight local Black philanthropists whose work embodies the spirit of giving. These individuals were selected across diverse categories, including Impact Philanthropist, Outstanding Youth Philanthropist, and Philanthropist of the Year, among others.

Each recipient was chosen not simply for their professional achievements, but for their volunteerism, advocacy and grassroots efforts that uplift the Black community in Summit County.

Their stories — now featured in the exhibit — serve as living proof that philanthropy goes beyond financial contributions to include mentorship, creativity, leadership and service.

"True philanthropy is not just measured by the funds given, but by the time invested and lives that are touched," said Torey Tolson, chair of The Soul of Philanthropy Akron steering committee. "Those who are being highlighted in this exhibit are just a fraction of the many changemakers of this community who have spent countless hours uplifting and empowering others. This recognition will serve as a reminder that their efforts are seen and celebrated and are building a legacy that transcends generations."

The impact of their work can already be seen throughout our community, from youth empowerment initiatives to neighborhood revitalization and more.

The Fund

At the heart of this initiative is the Black Giving Collective Fund, an endowment created by a group of Akron Community Foundation board members in 2023. The fund was born out of listening sessions with nearly 150 Black community members, who shared their perspectives on philanthropy and community needs.

With an initial gift of $50,000, a successful matching campaign, and an estimated gift of $100,000 to come from The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Fund, the Black Giving Collective Fund now has nearly $400,000 in assets.

The Soul of Philanthropy Akron was the fund's first major initiative, designed to elevate the visibility of Black philanthropy and inspire future generations to give back. Proceeds from the awards event and its related activities directly support the fund, ensuring its impact will be felt for years to come.

"I am honored to work alongside Akron Community Foundation board, staff and volunteers to build the Black Giving Collective into a substantial endowment fund that will forever help a historically marginalized community — the Black community — access greater opportunities," said Tracy Carter, chair of the Black Giving Collective Fund. "I believe the national Soul of Philanthropy exhibit will help raise awareness, excitement and engagement about philanthropy and our fund."

The Legacy

The success of The Soul of Philanthropy Akron is a testament to the power of collaboration. The steering committee — composed of local leaders from the arts, education, health and nonprofit sectors and more — worked tirelessly over the past two years to bring the exhibit and awards event to life.

The exhibit itself is a work of art and activism. Each photo and story is a window into the soul of a community that has given generously, often without recognition. By placing these stories in a museum setting, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron affirms that Black philanthropy is not peripheral — it is foundational to our shared history.

Beyond the exhibit, the Black Giving Collective Fund continues to build momentum. Its advisory board is developing funding priorities, recruiting volunteers, and forming partnerships to sustain investment in Black communities.

As the exhibit continues through February 2026, it serves as a catalyst for conversations about equity, representation and the future of philanthropy. It invites every visitor, regardless of background, to see themselves as a philanthropist who is capable of making a difference.

"There are still inequities for people of color," said Tolson. "Data shows us that donors who are racial minorities have made substantial contributions to the broad impact of moving our community forward with purpose. This exhibit aims to shine a light on the contributions of Black individuals and organizations who have made it their work to overcome these inequities. We hope, by visiting the exhibit, a spark is ignited in you to find ways to show your love of humankind with your time, talent and treasures."

The Soul of Philanthropy Akron is more than a celebration — it's a call to action. It challenges us to rethink who we honor, how we give, and what legacy we leave behind. As Akron reflects on the stories within these exhibits, one message rings clear: The soul of philanthropy lives here.

Make Your Impact

Give to the Black Giving Collective Fund at akroncf.org/give/BlackGiving.