Powerhouses Driving Change in Communities, Careers, and Beyond

Nonprofits are the heart and soul of social change. They are the unsung heroes doing the groundwork to elevate marginalized communities, tackle systemic challenges, and give back where it’s needed the most. For the Black community, African American-led nonprofits are essential in everything from healthcare disparities and educational inequities to career advancement and social justice reform.

But with so many out there, where do you even start? Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Whether you’re looking to donate, volunteer, or just get inspired by people out here making waves, these 10 must-know African American nonprofits are doing the damn thing — no cap.

1. The Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI)

For Black women, healthcare disparities are real — and so is the solution. BWHI was founded in 1983 and is the only national organization solely dedicated to improving the health and wellness of Black women and girls. They tackle everything from reproductive health to chronic disease, mental health, and the policy changes needed to address systemic racism in the healthcare system. BWHI is changing the narrative of what health looks like for us. Check them out, your health is worth it.

• Impact Highlights: BWHI has impacted over 1 million Black women through various health initiatives and education programs. Their work is essential in the fight against Black maternal mortality and cervical cancer rates.

2. Code2040

In an industry still struggling with diversity, Code2040 is the cultural game-changer tech needs. This nonprofit is dedicated to creating pathways for Black and Latinx people to enter and succeed in tech careers. If you’ve ever thought about how the tech world can be reimagined to reflect the true talent of the Black and Latinx community, this nonprofit is making it happen by providing resources, mentorship, and support to the future leaders of Silicon Valley and beyond.

• Impact Highlights: Code2040’s Fellows Program has connected over 500 Black and LatinX students to opportunities with top-tier tech companies.

3. The Loveland Foundation

Mental health access shouldn’t be a luxury. Founded by Rachel Cargle, The Loveland Foundation works to provide free and affordable therapy to Black women and girls who often face barriers to mental health services. With therapy costs still being an obstacle for many, this nonprofit is filling a crucial gap in mental wellness for Black women, ensuring we all have access to the tools we need for healing and growth.

• Impact Highlights: Over 10,000 therapy sessions funded for Black women in need since 2018

4. Black Girls Code

Empowering young Black girls to not just consume technology but build it? Say less. Black Girls Code is revolutionizing the STEM field by introducing programming, robotics, and other tech skills to girls of color ages 7-17. This organization is on a mission to ensure that the future of tech is led by women who look like us and think like us, and their coding camps and workshops are the first step.

• Impact Highlights: Over 30,000 young girls reached and trained in tech skills, preparing them to thrive in a field dominated by men.

5. Dream Defenders

Dream Defenders was born in the wake of the Trayvon Martin tragedy, and it has continued to fight for social justice, racial equality, and a fairer future for all Black people. They believe in a world where prison systems, police brutality, and economic inequality no longer exist — and they’re putting in the work to make that a reality. The Dream Defenders is the nonprofit for the revolutionaries who aren’t here for performative change but actual systemic dismantling.

• Impact Highlights: Major involvement in protests, legal reform initiatives, and community empowerment across Florida and beyond.

6. Black Youth Project 100 (BYP100)

Black youth are the future, and BYP100 knows it. This nonprofit is focused on empowering Black youth ages 18-35 to build a more just and sustainable future. Through direct action, research, and political education, BYP100 is putting the power in the hands of young people to advocate for themselves and their communities. It’s radical, it’s bold, and it’s necessary.

• Impact Highlights: BYP100 has been instrumental in organizing protests, policy advocacy, and leadership programs for Black youth across the U.S.

7. Color of Change

When it comes to influencing corporate practices, public policy, and pop culture, no one is doing it quite like Color of Change. As the largest online racial justice organization, they use digital platforms to promote racial justice campaigns that address everything from biased policing and media representation to voting rights and corporate accountability. Color of Change is your go-to if you want to see strategic, effective change happen on a national level.

• Impact Highlights: Color of Change led successful campaigns against tech giants, media corporations, and political figures to address racism and injustice.

8. NAACP Legal Defense Fund

The NAACP Legal Defense Fund is a nonprofit organization that provides legal representation to individuals and organizations fighting for civil rights. They have been involved in many landmark cases, including Brown v. Board of Education.

• Impact Highlights: The NAACP Legal Defense Fund has played a crucial role in advancing civil rights in the United States, securing landmark victories that have shaped our nation’s legal landscape.

9. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF)

Higher education is expensive, but the TMCF is making it more accessible for Black students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This nonprofit provides scholarships, resources, and job opportunities to HBCU students, ensuring that the next generation of Black leaders has what they need to succeed.

• Impact Highlights: Over $300 million raised and distributed to HBCU students in need.

10. Black Girls Rock! Foundation

Black Girls Rock! is a nonprofit organization that celebrates the achievements of Black girls and women. They offer mentorship programs, workshops, and scholarships to help young women develop their leadership skills and reach their full potential.

• Impact Highlights: Black Girls Rock! has empowered thousands of young women to become confident leaders, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact on their communities.

These organizations are transforming lives, but they can’t do it alone. Whether you have time, resources, or just want to spread the word, supporting these nonprofits is an investment in our community’s future. Let’s keep showing up for each other, amplifying these voices, and making real change happen.