Introduction
Running a nonprofit is hard. Running a Black led nonprofit comes with added layers of challenge that are often invisible. Our organizations exist because we are closest to the communities most impacted by trauma and inequity. At the same time, we are often farthest from the resources needed to do this work sustainably.
The Funding Gap We Navigate Every Day
National data shows that although communities of color make up nearly 44 percent of the United States population, nonprofits serving these communities receive less than 3 percent of overall philanthropic giving. Organizations serving Black communities receive just over half of one percent of total charitable dollars.
Black led nonprofits also operate with significantly fewer resources. On average, they bring in about 24 percent less revenue than white led organizations and are far less likely to receive unrestricted or corporate funding. This means less flexibility, fewer reserves, and greater vulnerability when demand increases or funding is delayed.
In California, where the need is high, Black led nonprofits report being consistently understaffed while serving growing numbers of youth and families. Many leaders are expected to do more with less while also holding the emotional weight of the communities they serve.
Our Reality and Our Growth in 2025
Despite these barriers, we continued to show up. In 2025, we reached 757 youth across schools and community sites and delivered 104 trauma informed and culturally responsive program sessions rooted in healing, joy, and connection.
This work was supported by new funders who chose to invest in our vision, including the San Francisco Foundation, June Julian and Foss Foundation, and East Bay Community Foundation. Together, we generated $138,332 in total revenue through a combination of grants and earned program income.
These numbers represent more than outcomes. They reflect trust, consistency, and the power of community centered work led by people who understand the lived experiences of the youth we serve.
Looking Ahead to 2026
In 2026, our focus is growth with intention. We plan to serve even more youth across expanded school partnerships and youth serving organizations. We are increasing community based workshops and launching more corporate wellness and healing programs that generate earned revenue while reinvesting directly back into free and low cost programming.
We are also strengthening our foundation by growing our board of directors, increasing corporate sponsorship, and building long term sustainability so this work is not dependent on crisis driven funding cycles.
Why This Story Matters
Black led nonprofits are often expected to solve deep systemic issues without being given equitable resources to do so. Our journey shows what is possible when communities are trusted and when lived experience is seen as leadership, not a liability.
We are proud of how far we have come. Our growth is not accidental. It is the result of persistence, community belief, and a commitment to healing centered work in systems that were not designed for us to thrive.
And we are just getting started.
