[Akron Community Foundation](https://www.akroncf.org)

March 31, 2024 (fund matching deadline)

$50,000 matching gift from Akron Community Foundation for funds raised by March 31, 2024

Initiative to celebrate, document, and support Black philanthropy in Summit County through exhibits, awards, and endowment fundraising.

Deadline was for a fund-matching challenge; future cycles may differ.

--- ## Description The initiative is inspired by the national touring exhibit "The Soul of Philanthropy," which highlights the historical and ongoing impact of Black philanthropy in the United States. Locally, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron, led by the Black Giving Collective Fund, features photography, interactive displays, and personal narratives to broaden the understanding of philanthropy and highlight the significant contributions of Black individuals and organizations in Summit County, Ohio. The program also includes a series of awards to honor local philanthropists and seeks to build a permanent endowment to benefit the Black community in Greater Akron. --- ## Due Dates - March 31, 2024: Deadline to raise $50,000 to receive Akron Community Foundation $50,000 matching gift (fund matching deadline) All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates. --- ## Funding Amount - $50,000 matching gift from Akron Community Foundation for funds raised by March 31, 2024 - The Black Giving Collective Fund exceeded its match and now holds over $200,000 in assets --- ## Eligibility - The matching challenge was for the Black Giving Collective Fund, supporting Black-led and Black-serving organizations in Summit County, Ohio. - Individuals and organizations contributing to the Black Giving Collective Fund were eligible for the match. - Award nominations (now closed) were open to individuals and organizations making a positive impact on the Black community in Summit County. --- ## Application Process - For the fund-matching challenge: Donations to the Black Giving Collective Fund counted toward the match if received by March 31, 2024. - For awards: A nomination process was held (now closed) to recognize local philanthropists across eight categories. - For future involvement or funding opportunities, interested parties should monitor the [initiative’s program page](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/affiliate-funds/black-giving-collective/the-soul-of-philanthropy-akron) or contact the fund directly. --- ## Additional Information - The Black Giving Collective Fund was established in 2023 with an initial $50,000 gift from Akron Community Foundation. - The fund is building a permanent endowment to support the Black community in Summit County. - The Soul of Philanthropy Akron exhibit ran at the Akron Art Museum from November 2025 to February 2026 and included local award recognition. --- ## External Links - [The Soul of Philanthropy Akron program page](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/affiliate-funds/black-giving-collective/the-soul-of-philanthropy-akron) - [Black Giving Collective Fund](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/affiliate-funds/black-giving-collective/) - [Akron Community Foundation homepage](https://www.akroncf.org) - [Contact Tracy Burt (Vice President, Marketing & Communications)](https://www.akroncf.org/personnel/tracy-burt/) - [Contact Debra Hoffman (Affiliate Fund Engagement Manager)](https://www.akroncf.org/personnel/debra-hoffman/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Phone | Web Contact | |--------------|----------------------------------------------|---------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Tracy Burt | Vice President, Marketing & Communications | 330-436-5619 | [Contact Tracy Burt](https://www.akroncf.org/personnel/tracy-burt/) | | Debra Hoffman| Affiliate Fund Engagement Manager | Not listed | [Contact Debra Hoffman](https://www.akroncf.org/personnel/debra-hoffman/) | | General | Akron Community Foundation Main Line | 330-376-8522 | [Contact Form](https://www.akroncf.org/contact/) |

The Soul of Philanthropy Akron

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