Brunch & Conversation: Black Philanthropy Month 2026

More than 50 Black philanthropic professionals and Black foundation board members joined us for our Brunch & Conversation, and the energy in the room was a beautiful reminder of what is possible when we create space to connect, share knowledge, and build together. 

(The amazing photography was captured by Elizabeth Carpio)

A special thank you to our incredible panelists and moderator for bringing honesty, wisdom, experience, and challenge to the conversation—and to our planning team whose care and collaboration brought it all together.

We are also grateful to Cleo Parker Robinson Dance for welcoming us into such a powerful space, and to the wonderful Black-owned businesses that helped make the gathering beautiful and delicious: Shared Denim Threads, Worth-It Baked Goods, and Bloom Haus & Co. Thank you for sharing your talents with us and helping create an experience rooted in community.

Several messages from the conversation continue to resonate: we must center and know our history; recognize the longstanding strength and power of Black philanthropy; and intentionally build the pipeline that keeps Black voices present at decision-making tables and in spheres of influence. Our knowledge, relationships, and lived experiences are assets—and we must continue finding opportunities to leverage them for our communities.

Now, the work is to stay connected, stay in it, and keep building. This wasn't simply about having a good conversation. It was about the "hook-up"—strengthening relationships that foster a web of trust and support. Where we can collectively move resources, open doors, share power, and nurture leadership pipelines.

Because Black philanthropy isn't new. It isn't just a month. It is history, community, power, and possibility - and we are continuing that legacy together.