The Ujima Legacy Fund: Redefining Philanthropy Through Collective Giving
Robert Dortch, Jr.
Innovation Leadership Coach/ Strategist/ Speaker/Philanthropy Advisor/Author/ Board Chair & Creative Force for Good
What does it mean to innovate in philanthropy? For the Ujima Legacy Fund, it means coming together with a shared vision, pooling resources, and rewriting the narrative of community impact. Founded in 2013 in Richmond, VA, this Black men’s giving circle exemplifies the power of Ujima—“collective work and responsibility.”?
Over the past decade, Ujima has invested upwards of half a million in funding to more than 20 local nonprofits, focusing on youth empowerment, education, and community development. This remarkable achievement demonstrates that collective giving can not only amplify individual contributions but also challenge societal narratives and create lasting change.
Here are three(3) key lessons from the Ujima Legacy Fund’s decade-long journey:
Questions on Collective Giving
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Interactive Exercises on Collective Giving?
1.????? Creating a Giving Vision: Draft a vision statement for a giving circle you could create. Outline the values, goals, and causes you’d focus on, and identify the resources you could collectively pool.
2.????? Narrative Reframing Exercise: ?Identify a prevailing narrative about philanthropy or ?leadership in your community. Write down how collective giving could challenge and reshape that narrative.
3.????? Commitment Challenge: ?Create a personal action plan for consistent giving or volunteering over the next year. Track your impact and reflect on how your efforts contribute to broader change.
The Ujima Legacy Fund reminds us that innovation isn’t just about what we create—it’s about how we work together to make it happen. Their decade of impact serves as a blueprint for how collective giving can transform communities, inspire leaders, and challenge societal norms.
As we reflect on their journey, let’s embrace the lessons of collaboration, narrative change, and unwavering commitment. Together, we can reimagine what’s possible when we pool our resources, talents, and passions for the greater good to lead with innovation and purpose in our giving journey.
Wishing you a Happy New Year!
Principal at Veronica Fleming Consulting
2 个月I am so incredibly proud of the work Ujima has done and the trail you are blazing for Black Philanthropy. Thank you for your leadership!
So impressive Robert. You’re an inspiration!
Chief Executive Officer at ChildSavers
2 个月Amandla!