What does it mean to innovate in philanthropy? For the Ujima Legacy Fund, it means coming together with a shared vision, pooling resources, and rewriting the narrative of community impact. Founded in 2013 in Richmond, VA, this Black men’s giving circle exemplifies the power of Ujima—“collective work and responsibility.”
Over the past decade, Ujima has invested upwards of half a million in funding to more than 20 local nonprofits, focusing on youth empowerment, education, and community development. This remarkable achievement demonstrates that collective giving can not only amplify individual contributions but also challenge societal narratives and create lasting change.
Here are three(3) key lessons from the Ujima Legacy Fund’s decade-long journey:
The Power of Collaboration: Ujima shows us how collective giving allows individuals to come together to make a greater impact than they could alone. Ujima’s model highlights how shared resources and vision can lead to meaningful outcomes for communities.
Changing the Narrative: As a Black men’s giving circle, Ujima challenges stereotypes about narratives about Black men related to giving back to our communities and positions its members as leaders in philanthropy, showcasing how innovation extends beyond technology to include transformative shifts in leadership and representation.
Commitment to Community: Ujima’s decade-long dedication proves that consistent investment in a shared cause can drive sustainable impact. Their work is a testament to the enduring power of purpose-driven collaboration.
Questions on Collective Giving
How does collective responsibility enhance your ability to lead and give meaningfully?
What narratives about leadership or giving could you challenge within your own community?
How can you make a long-term commitment to a cause that aligns with your values?
Interactive Exercises on Collective Giving
Creating a Giving Vision: Draft a vision statement for a giving circle you could create. Outline the values, goals, and causes you’d focus on, and identify the resources you could collectively pool.
Narrative Reframing Exercise: Identify a prevailing narrative about philanthropy or leadership in your community. Write down how collective giving could challenge and reshape that narrative.
Commitment Challenge: Create a personal action plan for consistent giving or volunteering over the next year. Track your impact and reflect on how your efforts contribute to broader change.
The Ujima Legacy Fund reminds us that innovation isn’t just about what we create—it’s about how we work together to make it happen. Their decade of impact serves as a blueprint for how collective giving can transform communities, inspire leaders, and challenge societal norms.
As we reflect on their journey, let’s embrace the lessons of collaboration, narrative change, and unwavering commitment. Together, we can reimagine what’s possible when we pool our resources, talents, and passions for the greater good to lead with innovation and purpose in our giving journey.
Wishing you a Happy New Year!
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