Closing the gaps

I would tell you that we understood (and understand) the challenges and margins that exist in our space and community very well. Black Excellence is committed to developing and raising up the next leaders in the classrooms, living rooms and boardrooms of our community. We recognize the positive power Black representation can have in one’s life beginning in the early stages at home as well as school and even into adulthood in the corporate setting, which emphasizes how each pillar is necessary to provide a comprehensive approach to our ability to make inspirational influence. 

Throughout our journey of establishing a nonprofit we have discovered that others share similar sentiments and are also actively looking to make impactful change. What we are learning, on a daily basis, is the overwhelming heart of our community here in the area. Businesses, nonprofits, executives, government officials, foundations and so many others are looking to get involved in creating equity. This ranges from financial support, guidance, advocacy and partnerships. As a result, we have gained an understanding that we can have a bigger impact than any one of us could have initially conceived by uniting together. 

There are already so many influential Black leaders in our communities (with or without official titles) doing the work and representing well, whether within the school systems, at home with their families or amongst the workplace. It is our goal to find those living out our mission that have built trusting relationships and help maximize their efforts, rather than recreating the wheel. We can be more impactful change agents when collaborating, supporting or joining forces together. As the saying goes, “many hands make light work.” Understanding that simple notion, along with the concept that “diverse thought fosters innovation,” we are capable of cultivating a ripple effect of genuine, lasting, influential change. 

When considering diverse thoughts and perspectives, one must be open to constructive criticism and make room for improvement, which is critical for anyone pursuing a nonprofit space or starting a new venture, especially as it relates to diversity, equity and inclusion. As Black voices have historically been silenced, listening to the needs and wants is critical to not only building trust, but also creating opportunities for innovative change to occur. 

For Black Excellence, it is essential to center the voices, thoughts and needs of the Black community. Successful organizations know their “why” and make decisions accordingly that lead back to their mission and values, keeping the people first. We plan to continue to lead by listening  and creating safe spaces so that we are trusted leaders for children and adults in the community. 

Our purpose is to empower other generations by volunteering our time to ensure representation is visible throughout each pillar as well as provide opportunities for growth and development at each stage in someone’s life, which is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and donors. The journey to a more equitable society amongst the Black community requires additional time, energy, resources and support. Our efforts will reflect progress toward a more equitable community within the Des Moines metro and beyond, specifically with education around financial literacy, future readiness, healthy lifestyles, community resources and mentorship. 

Lastly, when we all do our part to bridge the gaps for our marginalized community, everyone wins. Just to highlight the benefits of a local employer perspective, benefits range from attraction, retention, talent development, effective marketing and consumerism, brand recognition and loyalty, a thriving workplace culture, and ultimately community enrichment. While studies and statistics tell this story, we’re excited to bring it to life here in our radius of responsibility! 

Why is philanthropy important to our community?

Philanthropy is important in a plethora of ways, most importantly: 1) It provides the resources needed to enable and drive the efforts of the change agents. 2) It engages and garners support from the community to become aware, take part in, and become an extension of the service and meaningful work being done to close gaps. Specifically in the Black community, those gaps are far and wide from systemic damage that is still present today. It is our duty as a community to join efforts to repair the damage and help close those gaps.