The new funders: How Black women are redefining philanthropy

By Quameiha Raymond-Ducheine, storytelling associate

Philanthropy has long been seen as the realm of wealthy white men, using their fortunes to tackle distant problems. But at its heart, philanthropy means “love of humanity.” This guiding principle fuels Ciara Coleman’s work, where she is reshaping the field by placing Black women at the forefront of social change and empowering communities to drive lasting progress. 

Ciara’s journey into philanthropy is rooted in personal history, community service, and a commitment to uplifting those around her. Her late grandmother, Bobby Jean Jackson, serves as her inspiration. “She was my first example of a philanthropist before I even knew what that meant,” Ciara said. Through her grandmother’s selfless acts, Ciara learned that philanthropy transcends financial contributions. 

With more than 12 years in the philanthropic sector, Ciara’s work has evolved into a personal calling. As a program officer at the Rockefeller Foundation, Ciara was instrumental in securing funding from that organization for the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta’s GoATL Economic Inclusion Fund, which invests in underserved Black and other entrepreneurs of color in Atlanta. 

Through working in institutional philanthropy, Ciara observed disparities in the funding of Black-led organizations, especially those supporting the well-being of Black women and girls. A 2020 Bridgespan Report found that white-led organizations had budgets 24% larger than those led by Black, Indigenous, and people of color. Additionally, unrestricted funds for leaders of color were 76% smaller. To close this gap, Ciara spearheaded Geaux Girl Giving, a collective of 22 Black women dedicated to supporting Black women and girls in New Orleans. 

“Giving is the real flex,” Ciara said, emphasizing the power of collective giving. By pooling resources and funding organizations that support Black women and girls, Ciara and her collective are shifting the narrative around philanthropy. Their giving circle has contributed more than $70,000 to over 40 organizations, spanning arts, culture, health equity, and youth development. The majority of the organizations they support have budgets less than $100,000. 

Geaux Girl Giving is grounded in trust-based philanthropy, a model that seeks to empower communities rather than dictate terms. “We see the organizations doing great work in our community, and we trust them to make a difference,” Ciara said. This collaborative approach, characterized by mutual respect and shared values, contrasts with the often-bureaucratic nature of institutional philanthropy. For Ciara, philanthropy isn’t just about wealth; it’s about humanity and starts with the heart. Geaux Girl Giving remains committed to supporting Black women in philanthropy, especially in light of the recent controversy around race-based funding initiatives, such as the Fearless Fund decision, which has reduced funding for Black entrepreneurs.  

“By leveraging donor-advised funds and encouraging individual giving, we are ensuring that we can continue to provide essential support and resources to our members,” Ciara said. She envisions a future where Black women-led organizations are abundantly resourced and believes every contribution, no matter how small, matters. 

Ciara encourages others to “See yourself as a philanthropist.” She said, “Giving does not require a hefty check. It starts with what you can do, whether it’s $10, volunteering, or sharing your skills.”  

To learn more about donor-advised funds or investing in the GoATL Economic Inclusion Fund, click here.