Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has announced that she is giving $640 million to 361 small nonprofits that responded to an open call for applications. This donation is more than double the amount she initially pledged to give away through the application process. Since 2019, Scott and her team have researched and selected organizations without an application process and provided them with large, unrestricted gifts. The donation is part of Scott's ongoing philanthropic efforts to support various causes. [9ad6b854]
The donations from MacKenzie Scott's 'Yield Giving' venture aim to support individuals and families of meager or modest means, as well as groups facing discrimination and systemic obstacles. The organizations receiving donations focus on various topics such as housing, immigration, grassroots activism, and racial justice. Among the recipients of the donations are nineteen Chicago-area organizations. Communities United, a Hermosa-based organization, received $2 million to advance youth leadership and intergenerational racial justice. The Legal Council for Health Justice received a donation to improve medical-legal partnerships and increase access to healthcare for transgender people. The Kenwood Oakland Community Organization received $2 million to build leadership in the Black community and improve housing and education. [e51a62ba]
In addition to MacKenzie Scott's philanthropic efforts, basketball legend Michael Jordan is also making significant contributions. Jordan and the Jordan Brand have pledged to donate $100 million across 10 years through a community grant program. $50 million came personally from MJ, and Nike put up an additional $40 million towards this initiative, making it a $140 million pledge. The Jordan Brand and its namesake recently donated $8 million in grants to 37 organizations nationwide through the Black Community Commitment Fund. The fund's goal is to reward organizations for their efforts with grants under $3 million. As of February 2024, Nike and the Jordan Brand have donated more than $30 million towards various causes. In 2021, The Jordan Brand donated $2.5 million to fight Black voter suppression. The commitment to philanthropy is ongoing and will continue beyond the initial 10-year pledge. [f01bf430]
Both MacKenzie Scott and Michael Jordan continue to demonstrate their dedication to philanthropy by making substantial donations to organizations and causes that align with their values. Their contributions will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the communities and individuals they aim to support. [e01a3b55]