Blacks giving back: increasing number donate large sums to institutions and causes

What about those who don't know how to give back or who aren't sure of the best way to give back? Experts say that you should first begin to save. Then, start by giving a percentage of your annual income to a church, charity or other organization that focuses on the Black community. Make sure that your charitable donations (which are often tax-deductible) are included in your budget.

The Chicago Community Trust has even started an African-American Legacy Initiative, a vehicle for African-Americans to create a legacy of philanthropy.

Whatever you choose to give back--time, money or resources--understand that you are not only following philanthropic examples, but you are setting the bar for others who will follow. "My sense has always been that we've been givers," Stewart says. "I think we're a very generous people."

Is Oprah Winfrey The Biggest Black Philanthropist Ever? **

With her self-made media, communications and publishing empire, billionaire talk show host Oprah Winfrey has established a legacy of philanthropy virtually unparalleled in Black history.

From her humble beginnings in Mississippi and Milwaukee (where she grew up without electricity and running water) to a billion-dollar conglomerate that includes TV, movies and a magazine, Winfrey has focused on the importance of education as the key to success.

For her personal philanthropic donations, Winfrey established the Oprah Winfrey Foundation, which has donated roughly $32 million to African and African-American causes, according to a recent list provided by the Oprah Winfrey Foundation. Started in 1987, the private foundation is Winfrey's personal charity that she uses to further education and welfare for low-opportunity populations. The foundation has supported and empowered women, children and families around the world.

Winfrey and other contemporary Black givers are following a tradition established in the 19th century by well-to-do free Blacks, like James Forten and Robert Purvis, who were among the major supporters of the Abolitionist Movement and Black community organizations. Alonzo Herndon, Madame C.J. Walker and others continued that tradition in the 20th century.

Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls, South Africa: $10 million

Christmas Kindness, South Africa: $6 million

Morehouse College: $7 million

Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program for African Women at New Yolk University: $2.7 million

Jackson State University: $1.3 million

Spelman College: $1 million

A Better Chance: $1.2 million (national spokeswoman)

National Council of Negro Women: $2.5 million

** Sample list of largest donations to African-American and African causes courtesy of the Oprah Winfrey Foundation.

COPYRIGHT 2003 Johnson Publishing Co.
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