Philanthropy
News and Updates
Read the latest news about Robert F. Smith’s philanthropy as well as events and news concerning his thought leadership, philanthropic partners and charitable initiatives.

How Providing Students With Online Resources Helps Inspire STEM Careers
Pursuing a career in STEM can place students at the forefront of innovation and technology. Critical to these careers is the development of STEM skills, which can open doors to careers as inventors, astronauts, researchers and leaders in many other technology-related fields. While it is never too late to develop

How Providing Students With Online Resources Helps Inspire STEM Careers
Pursuing a career in STEM can place students at the forefront of innovation and technology. Critical to these careers is the development of STEM skills, which can open doors to careers as inventors, astronauts, researchers and leaders in many other technology-related fields. While it is never too late to develop

Honoring 60 Years: The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
The 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom took place at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on August 28, 2023.

Lincoln Hills Cares and TEENS, Inc. Partner to Sponsor the TeamWorks Program
TeamWorks is the brainchild of Lincoln Hills Cares and TEENS, Inc. It introduces Colorado youth and young adults to environmental action. Learn more.

Sphinx Organization Promotes Diversity in the Arts
Learn how the Sphinx Organization is expanding Black and Latino representation in classical music.

SFI’s COO Keith Shoates Testifies at U.S. House Hearing: Creating a Better Tomorrow for Students
Learn more about the work Student Freedom Initiative is doing to create equal opportunities for students.

35th National Equal Justice Awards: Recognizing Philanthropic Leaders
In May 2023, the Legal Defense Fund hosted its 35th National Equal Justice Awards Dinner, honoring many incredible individuals.

The NMAAHC and Landmarks Illinois Preserve the Ebony Test Kitchen to Protect and Promote Black History
Black history is American history — and preserving Black historical and cultural sites is vital to expanding knowledge of the triumphs and tribulations of Black Americans.

Robert F. Smith at the 788th Meeting of the Economic Club of New York
At the Economic Club of New York, Robert F. Smith spoke about how hiring based on merit ensures a company will find the best candidate for a job. He also met with the Columbia Business School Smith scholars.

We Are Stronger When We Stand Together
In January 2025, Robert F. Smith visited Kraków, Poland, as part of the Black-Jewish solidarity mission hosted by the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation.

How Grameen America Empowers Women Entrepreneurs
Grameen America, a Southern Communities Initiative (SCI) partner organization, helps empower women entrepreneurs by providing access to capital and financial education.

Highlights and Takeaways on Global Connectivity and Innovation From the 2025 WEF Annual Meeting
Robert F. Smith shared his insights, along with other panelists, at the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.

The National Park Foundation’s Inclusive Storytelling Program Awards 2024 Grant Recipients
The National Park Foundation’s Inclusive Storytelling program provided millions in grants to over 60 national park sites and organizations. Visitors can now receive more complete histories of our national parks.

How Black Salons and Barbershops Are Revolutionizing Healthcare Outreach
Black-owned beauty and barber shops use their spaces to provide healthcare outreach to the Black community through initiatives.