Women of Color GIVE to invest $65K into BIPOC community

What’s happening: Women of Color GIVE (WOC GIVE), announced the top three nominees for its 2023 grant cycle, when it will distribute $65,000, the most in its three-year history: Ballet Folklorico, Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates, and  Latin Americans United for Progress.

Why are they doing it: WOC GIVE is a West Michigan philanthropic collective supporting the advancement, development, and promotion of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). Women of Color GIVE was created for and by women of color who want to change the traditional giving landscape. 
 
What they are saying: “At its core, Women of Color GIVE believes in investing in its community,” said Rebekah Bakker, vice president of Woman of Color GIVE. “To us, that means donating to those who are dedicated to advancing the BIPOC community on the Lakeshore. We are proud to welcome these three organizations to present their projects to our members at the end of the year.”
 
What has happened so far: The organization hosted its third annual charity event, “The Future of Belonging,” on Oct. 12, drawing more than 300 guests. Graci Harkema, an international diversity, equity, and inclusion lecturer and best-selling author, gave the keynote speech. At the event, WOC Give revealed the three local nonprofits selected for funding out of 22 nominees. 

What’s next: The three nominees will present their projects at WOC Give’s annual pitch night on Dec. 13. The members of Women of Color GIVE will judge each presentation and determine the ranking of their awards. The nominees will walk away with $32,500, $19,500, or $13,000. Learn more at https://wocgive.org/.