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.

Warren Buffett Accelerates His Philanthropic Giving
Famed American philanthropist and investor Warren Buffett announced in July that he plans to accelerate his charitable donations by giving away his remaining Berkshire Hathaway shares by 2034. Buffett, the former CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has long planned to donating 99% of his wealth, and his giving continues to shape

Warren Buffett Accelerates His Philanthropic Giving
Famed American philanthropist and investor Warren Buffett announced in July that he plans to accelerate his charitable donations by giving away his remaining Berkshire Hathaway shares by 2034. Buffett, the former CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has long planned to donating 99% of his wealth, and his giving continues to shape

The EDISON Alliance: Closing the Digital Divide on a Global Scale
As a board member of the EDISON Alliance, Robert F. Smith is aiding a movement designed to bring affordable digital access and solutions to underserved people around the globe.

internXL Creates Equity for Minority Students Aiming for STEM and Business Careers
Robert F. Smith helped create internXL to establish an equitable entry into STEM and business careers for minority students who have achieved excellence, but otherwise might not have a shot.

The Alma Maters of Robert F. Smith: Cornell and Columbia
Robert F. Smith is dedicated to creating opportunities for talent to rise and thrive in minority communities. One ongoing task is creating a pipeline to graduate programs and careers in STEM for HBCU students.

Yellowstone’s 150th Anniversary and the National Park Foundation
Robert F. Smith works with the National Park Foundation to conserve areas across the U.S., like Yellowstone National Park which celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2022.

Robert F. Smith’s Passion for Black History Education
Find out how Robert F. Smith is helping preserve Black history and culture through Black History in Two Minutes (or so), a series of short educational videos.

Robert F. Smith and Fund II Foundation: Helping Preserve Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy
Preserving Black history is a key mission of Robert F. Smith and Fund II Foundation. Read about their work with The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change.

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.

Mansa: A Hub for Curated Black Cultural Content
Mansa, founded by David Oyelowo, Nate Parker, Chiké Okonkwo and Zak Tanjeloff, introduces global Black cultural content to diverse audiences.