Black Philanthropy Month (BPM), established in 2011 by Dr. Jacqueline Copeland-Carson of Pan-African Women’s Philanthropy Network with recognition by the United Nations, is celebrated globally every August to elevate African-descent giving and funding equity. Since its founding, millions of people and organizations across the globe have celebrated every August as a month of celebration and renewal of giving to and by African-descent communities.
At Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, it’s our mission to build pathways that help people pursue the life they want to achieve through job training and career placement resources. Success isn’t achieved alone, which is why we encourage partnership and collaboration to help our team and the people we serve in achieving their goals. As a nonprofit, we rely on material donations and purchases at our retail stores to fund our mission, in addition to corporate and philanthropic financial contributions.
Chris Jackson, President & CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont and a longtime donor to the organization, shares his perspective on the power of giving – both as a personal commitment and as a catalyst for community transformation.
Q: Why is it important to give?
Chris: “I believe giving is an expression of empathy and shared humanity. It’s how we build bridges across differences, participating in supporting others in our community, and investing in the future we want to see. Giving isn’t about charity – it’s about creating opportunity, fostering dignity, and reinforcing the idea that we are all interconnected. When we give, we affirm that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.”
Q: Why is it important to give to Goodwill?
Chris: “Supporting Goodwill is an investment in a better community for all and in sustainable change. Goodwill’s focus is to create pathways that help people prepare for the life they want to achieve. Every donation supports creating employment opportunities, training, and other programs that help individuals gain the skills needed to be successful. It’s a way to turn generosity into measurable impact here in our community.”
Q: How important is it to be a leader as a Black philanthropist?
Chris: “Representation matters – not just in boardrooms, but in giving circles and community leadership. When Black philanthropists lead, they bring lived experience and a commitment to equity that enriches the philanthropic landscape. It’s about visibility, legacy, and creating pathways for systemic change.”
Q: Where does your sense of community come from?
Chris: “My sense of community is rooted in family values, lived experience, and a deep belief we can all contribute to improving our community. It comes from growing up in environments where I saw the power of people looking out for one another, where opportunity and support led to unlimited potential.”
Q: How can someone’s involvement help others in the community?
Chris: “Community involvement can ignite transformation. It helps build trust, foster collaboration, and drives solutions that are inclusive and lasting. When one person steps up, it inspires others to do the same. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, donating, or advocating, each act of engagement can create ripples. It helps others feel seen, supported, and empowered.”
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If you would like to help fund Goodwill’s programs and services that we offer to the community free of charge, consider dropping off your gently used donations at one of our locations or making a financial contribution.
