Charlotte, NC, August 16, 2025
News Summary
This Saturday, leaders of Black-led giving circles will convene in Charlotte for CircleUp Carolinas, an event honoring Black Philanthropy Month. Attendees can explore the multimedia exhibit ‘Giving Back: The Soul of Philanthropy Reframed and Exhibited,’ which showcases the significance of Black philanthropy. Notable figures in attendance will include Tracey Greene-Washington and Ilyasah N. Shabazz, emphasizing the impact of community contributions. The celebration extends throughout August, drawing attention to the $11 billion donated annually by Black communities.
Charlotte, NC – Leaders of Black-led giving circles from across the Carolinas will gather in Charlotte this Saturday for CircleUp Carolinas, an event celebrating Black Philanthropy Month and the tradition of collective giving. This event will take place from noon to 3:30 p.m. at the Charlotte Museum of History.
The event will feature the multimedia exhibit “Giving Back: The Soul of Philanthropy Reframed and Exhibited,” which showcases stories, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight the cultural values and traditions of Black philanthropy. As reported, Black communities contribute approximately $11 billion annually to charitable causes, donating a higher proportion of their wealth compared to other racial groups. Notably, 77 percent of giving circles are identity-based, demonstrating the power of community-oriented philanthropy.
Featured participants at CircleUp Carolinas include prominent figures in Black philanthropy, such as Tracey Greene-Washington, founder of CoThinkk; Ilyasah N. Shabazz, senior operations and communications director at Philanthropy Together; and Valaida Fullwood, creator of The Soul of Philanthropy. Their presence underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating Black contributions to community building.
To facilitate attendance, buses will depart at 8:30 a.m. from Asheville’s Triangle Park and Trinity United Methodist Church, transporting local giving circle members to the event. This initiative aims to foster a spirit of cooperation and collective engagement among community members.
August is officially recognized as Black Philanthropy Month, running from the 1st to the 31st. The month-long celebration highlights the legacy, impact, and future of Black giving at local, national, and global levels. The exhibition “Giving Back” originated at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte and has traveled to multiple cities since its launch in 2015, further promoting awareness and appreciation of Black philanthropy.
Additionally, a related event titled “The Soul of West Boulevard: Stories of Black Community Building” will take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Stratford Richardson YMCA. This program aims to encourage participation from a diverse array of racial and ethnic backgrounds, thereby redefining philanthropy beyond merely financial contributions.
The Saturday event promises to deepen the understanding of Black philanthropists’ roles in community development and their significant, yet often underrecognized, contributions to societal progress.
FAQ
What is CircleUp Carolinas?
CircleUp Carolinas is an event that gathers leaders of Black-led giving circles from the Carolinas to celebrate Black Philanthropy Month and collective giving.
When and where is the event taking place?
The event will take place this Saturday from noon to 3:30 p.m. at the Charlotte Museum of History in Charlotte, NC.
What is featured at the event?
The event includes the multimedia exhibit “Giving Back: The Soul of Philanthropy Reframed and Exhibited,” which highlights the cultural values and traditions behind Black philanthropy.
Who are the featured participants?
Notable figures include Tracey Greene-Washington, Ilyasah N. Shabazz, and Valaida Fullwood, among others.
What is Black Philanthropy Month?
Black Philanthropy Month is recognized from August 1-31, celebrating the legacy and impact of Black giving both locally and globally.
Is transportation provided to the event?
Yes, buses will depart at 8:30 a.m. from Asheville’s Triangle Park and Trinity United Methodist Church for local giving circle members.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | CircleUp Carolinas |
| Date and Time | This Saturday, noon to 3:30 p.m. |
| Location | Charlotte Museum of History, Charlotte, NC |
| Main Exhibit | “Giving Back: The Soul of Philanthropy Reframed and Exhibited” |
| Key Participants | Tracey Greene-Washington, Ilyasah N. Shabazz, Valaida Fullwood |
| Annual Contribution from Black Communities | Approximately $11 billion |
| Percentage of Identity-based Giving Circles | 77% |
| Related Event | “The Soul of West Boulevard: Stories of Black Community Building” |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Asheville Honors the Legacy of Jerry Sternberg
Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: From Asheville to Charlotte, Buses Roll for Black Philanthropy Month
- WCCB Charlotte: Charlotte-based Giving Circle Hosts 10-Year Anniversary Exhibit
- QCity Metro: Black Philanthropy Exhibition Opens in Charlotte
- Charlotte Ledger: How the United Way is Rethinking Philanthropy
- Business North Carolina: LaBar to Lead Women’s Impact Fund
- Wikipedia: Philanthropy
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
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