The wise and wonderful Sadie Delany* once said: “Life is short, and it’s up to you to make it sweet.” Since August is Black Philanthropy Month, take her advice to heart by supporting philanthropic and grassroots initiatives and organizations aimed at empowering black women and girls.
Giving back is good for your spirit and your health. So support a worthy cause this weekend. August is Black Philanthropy Month. (Photo: Hill Street Studios/Eric Raptosh/Getty Images)
Here are a few suggestions of organizations that do interesting and important work. To find more groups in your area, contact the National Black Federation of Charities. Once you get to know an organization’s work, you may want to volunteer or donate your support.
Whatever you decide to do, remember that giving back is good for you. It not only lifts your spirits but also lowers blood pressure and reduces stress.
1. The African Women’s Development Fund USA works to lead a new era of African women’s development by supporting women’s rights and leadership, economic development, governance, peace and security, and health and wellness throughout the continent.
2. The Rebecca Project for Justice advocates protecting life, dignity and freedom for people in Africa and the United States. The organization works to stop violence and other human rights violations carried out against women and girls.
3. The Black Women’s Agenda. Founded in 1977, this organization has a long history of supporting economic development and policy changes that advance, secure and protect the needs and interests of black women.
3. Sister’s Network is the only African-American organization for breast cancer survivors in the United States. The group is based in Texas but raises awareness nationwide.
4. Sweet Blackberry. Actress Karyn Parsons (“Hilary” on the “Fresh Prince of Bel Air”) launched this nonprofit to share little-known stories of black history with all children.
5. Afro Puffs and Ponytails. This group’s site is the place to find U.S. organizations that work to empower black girls and teens.
About Fierce Fridays — Tips for Weekend Well-Being
We each cherish those precious days off at the end of the week, but increasingly those of us who are charter members of the sisterhood of the stressed and overworked are losing our Saturday and Sunday leisure time to weekend work and domestic duties.
To make sure that you do something every weekend that’s just for you, we’ll be sharing a little advice to make those 48 hours a great time to recharge your batteries, bring a little good news into your life or discover a quick and easy way to improve your health.
*Sadie Delany (1889–1999) co-wrote Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years with her sister Bessie Delany and author Amy Hill Hearth.
