Associated Black Charities

On Thursday, Bernard proudly represented Associated Black Charities at the Third Annual JOCISM Passover Seder, hosted at the beautiful new headquarters of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore. We’re honored to be part of this growing tradition that uplifts the power of community and collective freedom.

On behalf of Associated Black Charities (ABC), we proudly extend our sincerest congratulations to Chrissy M. Thornton, President and CEO of ABC, on her recent appointment to the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture (MCAAHC) by Governor Wes Moore. This prestigious appointment was recently confirmed by the Maryland Senate and stands as a powerful testament to her leadership, commitment to equity, and deep dedication to preserving and promoting African American heritage in Maryland. The Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture is charged with discovering, documenting, preserving, collecting, and promoting Maryland’s African American history and culture. The Commission also provides technical assistance to institutions and groups with similar objectives and supports efforts to educate Marylanders and visitors alike about the critical contributions of African Americans to the state’s rich legacy. We extend our deepest gratitude to Tisha Edwards, Immediate Past Secretary of Appointments, for her vision and commitment to inclusive representation in the Moore-Miller Administration. Her work has ensured that leaders like President Thornton are seated at decision-making tables where voices of the Black community are not only heard but valued. Congratulations Chrissy, on this well-deserved honor!

ABC Community Convos In Sandtown-Winchester: 10 Years Later – Honoring Freddie Gray, Uplifting the Movement Join Associated Black Charities for a special Community Convos event in the Sandtown-Winchester community as we gather to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the death of Freddie Gray, whose life and tragic death sparked national outrage, a local uprising, and urgent calls for justice in Baltimore and beyond. Ten years later, we return not just to remember, but to reflect on what has changed - and what has not. This conversation will explore the legacy of the 2015 uprising, examine the ongoing struggle for racial justice, and center the voices of community members, advocates, and young leaders who continue to fight for equity, accountability, and healing. In addition to our regular Community Convos, together, we’ll ask: What have we learned since 2015? What systems have shifted - and which remain unchanged? How do we honor Freddie Gray’s life through sustained action, not just memory? This gathering will include open discussion, community reflections, and a moment of silence to honor Freddie and all victims of police violence. This is not just a conversation. It’s a commitment. We invite you to stand with us as we reflect, remember, and recommit to a better Baltimore.

Welcome to our “First” Friday series! In alignment with ABC’s mission to eliminate race-based structural barriers, we spotlight Black pioneers whose leadership has made a lasting impact on their communities. Today, we celebrate June Bacon-Bercey, the first trained on-air woman meteorologist in the United States and the first African American woman to graduate with a degree in meteorology from the University of California. A true trailblazer, June’s groundbreaking achievements in the field of meteorology not only shattered barriers but also opened doors for future generations of women and people of color in STEM. June’s journey is a powerful reminder of the incredible impact one person can have when they follow their passion and refuse to let obstacles stand in their way. From forecasting the weather to blazing a path for others to follow, her legacy continues to inspire and uplift. ABC honors and celebrates June Bacon-Bercey for her pioneering work in meteorology and her relentless dedication to excellence, which continues to inspire countless individuals in the STEM field and beyond. #FirstFriday #Trailblazers #BreakingBarriers #BlackExcellence #AssociatedBlackCharities #JuneBaconBercey #WomenInSTEM #MeteorologyPioneer

In 1985, a bold vision became reality. A group of ministers and business leaders saw a need—Black communities in Maryland weren’t getting the support they deserved. So, they took action. With just three staff members, a dedicated Board, and a $100,000 grant from United Way, Associated Black Charities was born! Fast forward to today—we’re still here, still fighting, still building. From closing wealth gaps to dismantling systemic barriers, our work is far from over. Stay with us every #ThrowbackThursday as we take a journey through our history leading up to this milestone celebration. #ABC40Years #TBT #BlackExcellence #EconomicEquity #WeAreABC

Breaking barriers, building connections! The Rekindle Fellowship— a collaboration between Associated Black Charities, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore, and the Elijah Cummings Youth Program— brings together leaders from Baltimore’s Black and Jewish communities for deep, honest conversations that foster understanding and collaboration. Read more about this powerful initiative here: https://lnkd.in/e29-5AjT

✨ And the winner is Akeish Forsythe ✨ Congratulations! You’ve just won ONE (1) VIP EXPERIENCE TICKET to see Mary J. Blige live at CFG Bank Arena on April 4th! Get ready for a night of luxury, unforgettable music, and VIP perks as you witness the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul in style. Thank you to everyone who entered—stay tuned for more exciting opportunities! 🎶🔥 #MaryJBlige #VIPExperience #CFGbankArena

🚨Today is the last day to apply! 🚨 Are you between the ages of 16 and 24, looking for an opportunity to step into leadership and make a real impact? Do you know a young leader who is ready to take their seat at the table? Associated Black Charities is excited to announce the Spring 2025 Young Leaders Board Pipeline Leadership Development Training Program, a one-day, in-person cohort experience on April 12th, designed to empower the next generation of Black leaders. At Associated Black Charities, we know that Black voices belong in boardrooms; not just as junior members, but as full contributors whose insights drive change. This program equips young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to serve on nonprofit boards and make an impact now. Date: April 12, 2025, 9:00-3:00pm Location: 2 Hamill Rd, Village of Cross Keys, Baltimore, MD 2121 Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 Apply now! bit.ly/abcyoungleaders2025 Don’t miss this opportunity to take the next step in your leadership journey!

Associated Black Charities (ABC), Association of Fundraising Professionals and Baltimore Public Relations Council (BPRC) hosted an insightful panel on sustaining equity and inclusion efforts amidst financial challenges and shifting federal policies. Nonprofit leaders shared strategies for navigating funding cuts while staying true to their missions. Key discussion points included: * Transparency & Trust: Building stronger relationships with donors and stakeholders to secure ongoing support. * Strategic Resilience & Innovation: Leveraging partnerships and advocacy to maintain focus on equity priorities. * The Funding Landscape: Diversifying revenue streams and exploring new funding models to ensure sustainability. Attendees left with actionable strategies to continue their impactful work and stay committed to social change, no matter the obstacles. View Photos Here: https://lnkd.in/eZz8qXEe #RacialEquity #NonprofitLeadership #StrategicResilience #CommunityImpact #BlackExcellence #ABCPanelDiscussion