Every August, we celebrate Black Philanthropy Month—a time to spotlight and amplify the legacy of giving within the global Black community. But what if we told you that this movement isn’t only about giving money?
At Support Black Charities, we believe that true philanthropy is not about wealth—it’s about the will to make a difference. And this year, we’re inviting you to embrace that power in its simplest, most beautiful form:
🙌🏾 Pay It Forward.
🔁 What Does “Paying It Forward” Really Mean?
Think back to a time when someone helped you out of kindness—without expecting anything in return.
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A friend who lifted you up when you felt unseen.
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A mentor who opened doors.
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A stranger who gave you hope when you had none.
That moment of unprompted care left an imprint, didn’t it?
That is the spirit of paying it forward.
It’s about transforming gratitude into action.
And it’s exactly how Black philanthropy has always worked—quietly, powerfully, and collectively.
✊🏾 Black Philanthropy Is Built on Everyday Acts of Love
From mutual aid during slavery to the Civil Rights Movement, our communities have always found strength through solidarity. Whether it was:
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Neighbours pooling resources
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Churches supporting displaced families
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Aunties raising funds for education
We’ve always known that time, talent, and kindness are just as valuable as treasure.
So let’s expand the definition of philanthropy—especially during Black Philanthropy Month.
💭 Common Myths About Philanthropy—And How “Paying It Forward” Answers Them
Let’s bust a few outdated beliefs:
❌ “I’m not rich. I can’t be a philanthropist.”
✅ Yes, you can. True generosity comes from the heart, not the wallet. Volunteering, mentoring, donating even $10 a month—these acts create ripple effects.
❌ “I don’t know where to start.”
✅ Start with what you have. Support a local Black nonprofit, share their work, or uplift a community member in need.
➡️ Explore vetted Black-led organizations at SupportBlackCharities.org.
❌ “Philanthropy feels too formal or distant.”
✅ Not anymore. When you pay it forward, you’re connecting emotionally. You’re extending the kindness you once received—and that’s as personal as it gets.
🌍 Why Paying It Forward Matters More Than Ever
In 2023, a report revealed that only 0.07 cents of every $100 in philanthropic dollars in Canada made it to Black-led organizations.
Let that sink in.
We’re changing that. But it starts with you.
This isn’t about waiting for big foundations or government policies. It’s about the Afro-Futures of Giving—a vision of sustainable, community-driven action fueled by everyday people.
🎯 When you give to a Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused (B3) nonprofit, you’re not just donating—you’re investing in transformation.
❤️ Support Black Charities: We’re Making “Paying It Forward” a Movement
At Support Black Charities (SBC), we’re redefining what it means to give:
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We spotlight powerful Black organizations.
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We connect them with donors, volunteers, and supporters like you.
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We make generosity simple, accessible, and deeply impactful.
This August, we invite you to join us. Make a gesture—big or small. Give time. Share a resource. Support a cause. Uplift someone.
Because that one act might change everything for someone else.
📣 Your Call to Action
✨ This Black Philanthropy Month, make your generosity visible.
✨ Tag us at @SupportBlackCharities and use #PayItForwardMonth
✨ Visit supportblackcharities.org to support vetted Black-led nonprofits.
✨ Want to dive deeper into the meaning, history, and ways to celebrate Black Philanthropy Month?
➡️ Visit our campaign hub at supportblackcharities.org/black-philanthropy-month-2025
💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
What does “paying it forward” mean to you?
Who in your life has paid it forward to you?
Drop a comment. Share a story. Be the spark.
Because the future of Black philanthropy isn’t about what we have—
It’s about how we give it forward.