Melanistic Magazine Vol 8

EDMONTON'S BLACK COMMUNITY FUND

Have you ever considered what it takes to build a legacy?

How does one create a system that can support the dreams and aspirations of generations to come? Alone, the task seems daunting, but what if you could effectively pool resources with others who share your vision?

ECF delivers the framework to make this a reality. With sustainability at its core, the new Edmonton’s Black Community Fund offers the opportunity to be part of a foundation of legacy builders. Acknowledging some of the unique challenges that face Edmonton’s Black communities, the fund is dedicated to supporting Black-led and -serving organizations and projects.

As Black business owners, parents, community members and allies, becoming a donor to this endowment fund opens access to $100,000 in matching funds, once the fund begins granting and allows donors to tangibly contribute to building a stronger, more diverse Edmonton.

About Edmonton’s Black Community Fund:

How much is needed to establish Edmonton’s Black Community Fund?

Endowment funds at Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) can begin granting when they reach $10,000. Donors and founders have up to 10 years to reach this threshold.

How will the funds be managed if I become a Donor?

The accumulated funds are invested and managed by a team of experts. As the funds grow, a percentage is issued as grants annually to support initiatives and organizations that meet the mandates of the fund.

How will the projects and initiatives be chosen?

Grant applications are reviewed by an advisory committee comprised of members of Edmonton’s Black communities. Each committee member brings a unique area of expertise to the table. The team is tasked with reviewing grant applications and identifying the organizations or initiatives that are working to build the Black community and who would benefit from this sustainable support.

How do the matching funds work?

ECF has committed $100,000 of its discretionary dollars to match all donations made to the Edmonton’s Black Community Fund in 2021. Anyone can donate to the fund and have their gift match dollar-for-dollar. Donations to the fund are also eligible for tax receipts.

How can I get involved?

There are no restrictions on becoming a donor. Consider pooling resources through a fundraiser, or as a businessperson, family, community member or ally, simply contact ECF’s Donor Services Team at info@ecfoundation. org to become a Donor today.

“ The fund is necessary for the growth and sustainability of the Black community. I see my role as an advocate of the fund, to bring awareness of its existence. I’m also committed to reviewing applications yearly to ensure that we are funding the appropriate organizations at the right time. I hope we see momentum given to these organizations that are doing amazing things and to build a community around granting and be able to share best practices. To anyone that is looking at Edmonton’s Black Community Fund, I want them to know that they can rest assured that their funding will support community needs and priorities within the Black community.”

-Samantha Alexander, Edmonton Black Community Fund Council member