Stories: Black Giving Collective Stories

Memorial Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Dorothy O. Jackson was a pioneering civic leader, public servant and philanthropist whose decades of service transformed Akron's social and political landscape. Known for her trailblazing spirit...

Emerging Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Donte Cargill is a compassionate and visionary nonprofit leader whose work is rooted in both love of community and the enduring legacy of his mother, Patricia. Donte established Patricia Ann...

Hidden Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Though not a Summit County native, Pamela Valentine has been deeply involved in the Greater Akron community for decades. Pamela graduated from the University of Akron and stayed in the community to...

Philanthropist of the Year Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Towanda Mullins is a dynamic community leader, cultural advocate, and coalition builder whose work has left an indelible mark on Greater Akron and beyond. As chairperson of the Sojourner Truth...

Impact Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Bernett L. Williams, MPA, CDP, is a visionary community leader whose life's work reflects an unwavering commitment to equity, empowerment, and healing. Through advocacy, partnership, and a gift for...

Outstanding Youth Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Noelle Toney is a remarkable middle school student from Akron, Ohio, whose vision and determination are proving that leadership has no age limit. As the founder of Noelle's Impact...

Outstanding Young Adult Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Bryce Harris is an Akron-born educator and youth advocate whose leadership reflects both vision and heart. After excelling as a four-year captain and standout offensive lineman at...

Outstanding Philanthropic Institution Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Jacqueline Silas-Butler, Executive Director Project GRAD Akron is a transformative nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that all students — regardless of background or circumstance —...

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...

When it comes to wealth in the United States, the numbers are clear: The typical net worth of white families is nearly 10 times that of Black families. And though Black individuals give a higher portion of their income to charity compared to white...