Black Philanthropy Center

The Black Philanthropy Center—formerly the African American Philanthropy Committee —is a catalyst for Black-led giving, leadership and community wealth in Greater Cleveland and beyond. Rooted in a 30-year legacy at the Cleveland Foundation, the center connects philanthropy to lasting equity, opportunity and generational impact.

We believe philanthropy is more than generosity—it is a tool for preserving culture, building wealth and shaping the future of Black communities.

Purpose

The Black Philanthropy Center exists to strengthen and expand Black philanthropy across the Black Diaspora through education, engagement and strategic giving. We help individuals, families and institutions understand how philanthropy can be a powerful force for community preservation, economic empowerment and social change.

The center:

Grows and stewards the Black Philanthropy Fund and the African American Philanthropy Committee Legacy Fund

Elevates Black voices and leadership in philanthropy

Convenes changemakers through the biennial Power of Philanthropy Summit

A Legacy That Leads Us Forward

The Black Philanthropy Center builds on the powerful foundation of the African American Philanthropy Committee, established more than 30 years ago by former Cleveland Foundation President and CEO Steven A. Minter. The AAPC transformed local philanthropy by centering Black voices, mobilizing Black-led giving and creating a platform for sustained community impact.

Today, the center honors that legacy—while stepping boldly into the future. We continue AAPC’s work of convening thought leaders, mobilizing resources and inspiring generosity that uplifts Black communities now and for generations to come.

Give Forward with Black Philanthropy

This is a new chapter in Black philanthropic leadership—and you are part of it.

Through your giving, your voice and your partnership, you can help shape the next generation of impact. Together with the Cleveland Foundation, we are building a future where Black philanthropy continues to grow, lead and transform communities.

Through collective giving, donors have the opportunity to support both immediate needs and long-term change. Contributions provide direct support to Black-led and Black-serving organizations today, while also fueling collaborative, community-driven strategies that create lasting impact for generations to come.

Give to the Black Philanthropy Center

The Black Philanthropy Center supports the Cleveland Foundation’s mission by promoting awareness and education to people within the Black Diaspora about the benefits of wealth and community preservation through philanthropy.

A gift to the Black Philanthropy Center supports long term impact.

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Give to the Black Philanthropy Fund

An affinity fund with a mission to harnessing the strength of collective giving, convening bold voices and sparking joyful collaboration to drive systemic change and build a healthy community for generations to come.

A gift to the Black Philanthropy Fund supports long term impact.

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African American Legacy Fund

This fund supports Black-led and Black-serving organizations and is bolstered by the collective giving of all ages, business, sororities and fraternities, faith-based organizations and multiple member organizations.

A gift to the AAPC Legacy Fund supports immediate impact.

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