COLA Gives

"We are a COMMUNITY ORGANIZED to LEVERAGE our ASSETS" COLA Gives members "pool" their assets of talent, time & treasure to strategically allocate grants, awards, support and assistance to emerging, entrepreneurial and effective projects, practices, and programs that directly address needs of Black communities. We are unique in the "giving back" philanthropic processes because our giving is based on an observation of a need, not an application or solicitation.

As a local giving circle, COLA Gives is focused on strategically allocating its funds and talent/time resources on under-resourced non-profits. Members of the giving circle share a common goal of maintaining and strengthening the African American community values of self-determination, self-help, and collective action. Thus, COLA Gives strives to demonstrate the continuing efficacy of these and other values that have served the Black community well throughout our history and promises to be effective tools, if applied, for creating a successful future for all. We leverage the resources available among our members, friends and donors to recognize and support the good work done by local, community-based non-profits within the community. These unsolicited "grants" of time, talent, and/or treasure are designed for those who "do the real work" of community development and improvement.

Testimonials

"…Through your generosity, we are able to provide even better care for those poor mothers and infants. WE have seen many lives changed for the better because of the programs and services you are helping us provide…" Dr. Nweze Nnakwe, President, Merciful Hearts Foundation, INC, NFP

"...Please express my sincere appreciation to your group for quietly going about the business of helping and supporting our efforts and the students in district two. Many thanks..."
Martha Jones, Executive Dir. of Strategic Partnerships Richland (County) Two School District

"...Additionally, we were shocked to be given an unsolicited check . Please know that this donation will be used to further the CCFT mission to have a year round Out-of-School Program that will support and improve the well-being and educational outcomes of elementary and middle school students and their families." Ruth Martin, President/CEO and Jessie H. Chandler, Board Chair, Center for Community and Family Transitions.

Check the COLA Gives website for more stories http://www.colagives.com/testimonials/