Examining the Correlation of Poverty, Philanthropy & Opportunity in America

Earlier this year, contributing columnist Ray Jordan wrote a very thoughtful and insightful article in The Dallas Examiner about poverty, as it pertains to the way we not only look at it in this country, but as a culture.  He cited the fact that African-Americans, although by and large have been hit more disproportionately harder by the recession over the last few years - continue to give to charitable causes at the same rate (according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy).   He also mentioned the fact that most of African-American charitable giving goes to the Black Church.

What makes his commentary thought-provoking is his analysis and examination of the correlation between the Black Church, funds garnered by the Black Church, and forward movement or progress in their surrounding communities.  This has been a historical legacy in the African-American culture for ages, but is worthy of closer examination in the new millennium.

So what have many young professionals opted to do instead?  They opt to focus their efforts - and their monies - towards grassroots nonprofit organizations who, theoretically, have a proven track of "doing the most good" in the community through pragmatic programs and initiatives that address the most pressing issues of the community, particularly, the underserved community.   It truly makes sense!  There is an uprising of a generation of youngsters who are taking the torch from their predecessors at Urban League, NAACP, United Way, Greenpeace, MoveOn (political organization) and a host of other worthy causes to truly see an impact of their fruits.

To read the full story on this by Jordan, click here.