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

Black Giving Circles: A Look Back at Black Philanthropy
Black giving circles and philanthropy have a history of uplifting communities through transformative contributions.

How HBCUs Are Transforming Education Into Economic Empowerment
Explore how HBCUs empower Black students through education, career readiness and community impact, driving economic mobility and bridging the racial wealth gap.

The Importance of Black Women Entrepreneurs
Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs today, helping create racial equity in business.

Developing More Green Spaces in Inner Cities
Urban green spaces provide recreational, social and health benefits for residents of inner cities in the U.S. Several organizations are working to build and preserve parks, greenbelts and more.

Bridging the Gap: Propelling Black Pilots Into Aviation
The lack of Black pilots has prompted airlines and other organizations to develop recruiting programs aimed at increasing representation in aviation.

Robert Kraft Donates $1 Million to Promote Black and Jewish Unity
In April 2024, Robert Kraft donated $1 million to United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to promote unity between Black and Jewish student organizations.

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.