Uplifting Change: A Legacy of Black-Led Philanthropy
Uplifting Change has stood as one of Liberty Hill’s most visionary initiatives—a bold effort that reimagined what Black-led philanthropy could look like in Los Angeles.
Launched under the leadership of former President & CEO Kafi Blumenfield, the initiative brought together Black donor activists to leverage their collective power and invest directly in grassroots organizing that strengthens Black communities across Los Angeles.
The initiative debuted at a landmark summit in February 2010, where local African American donor activists and philanthropic leaders gathered to champion new solutions, elevate emerging leaders, and garner support for organizations on the frontlines of social change.
“Today is about further realizing how we can be more strategic in our giving for the African American community, owning our role as philanthropists to address many of the unmet needs of our community,” Blumenfield shared during her opening remarks.
The energy in that room signaled a movement in the making. As Dr. Bob Ross, former CEO of The California Endowment, reflected, “I walked in expecting a small gathering, and instead saw a packed room filled with Black philanthropists. The passion levels in the room were high. The level of engagement was deep and thorough. And I thought, ‘Wow, maybe this really is doable and achievable.’”
Rooted in the long and rich tradition of African American philanthropy—from 18th century mutual aid societies to the rise of Black foundations—Uplifting Change honored this legacy while ushering it into a new era. The initiative celebrated every facet of giving, placing service, leadership, lived experience, and financial investment at the center of its mission.
Through this work, Liberty Hill united donor activists across sectors and sparked a renewed movement of collective Black philanthropy in Los Angeles. The initiative helped ignite several Black-led giving circles at Liberty Hill including the BLACC Fund, Susan’s Circle, and Angelenos for Los Angeles, which expanded opportunities for donors to support community-rooted solutions through collective giving.
It also laid important groundwork for the foundation’s Agenda for a Just Future, advancing efforts around racial and economic justice.
Today, the impact of Uplifting Change continues to reverberate, visible in stronger community institutions, reimagined philanthropic leadership, and a growing network of Black donor activists committed to social change.
