The Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County (BPCHoCo) has reached an exciting milestone in its mission to strengthen and uplift the African American community in Howard County. At its second annual College Connections & Conversations event, the Circle proudly announced that the S.T.A.N.D. (Stepping Towards a New Destiny) Mentorship Program is the recipient of BPCHoCo’s first grant award.
The event gathered students, families, mentors, community partners, donors, and members of the growing BPCHoCo community for an evening of inspiration, connection, and forward-looking conversation. During the program, BPCHoCo recognized the leadership and impact of the S.T.A.N.D. team and officially awarded the program its inaugural grant.
The grant was presented to Tigana Duncan, Founder and Executive Director of S.T.A.N.D., in recognition of the organization’s powerful work supporting youth development, academic success, leadership, and life readiness among young men of color.
“We are thrilled to recognize the S.T.A.N.D. Mentorship Program as the first grant recipient of the Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County,” said Derrick Leak, Founder and Chair of BPCHoCo. “This circle was created to intentionally invest in our community, to respond to needs, expand opportunity, and build a legacy of philanthropy for generations to come. S.T.A.N.D. embodies the kind of leadership, compassion, and commitment that strengthens families and changes futures.”
Founded in December 2023 as a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC), the Black Philanthropy Circle was created to bring together donors committed to advancing equity and expanding opportunity for the African diaspora in Howard County. Through collective giving, BPCHoCo pools resources to support nonprofit organizations addressing disparities in education, health, economic mobility, youth development, and community well-being.
The Circle was formed around a clear belief that philanthropy is most powerful when it is rooted in lived experience and community voice.
“The establishment of the Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County is a significant step toward supporting the local African diaspora,” said Leak. “By focusing on the needs of Howard County residents with African heritage, the Circle is helping bridge gaps in access to resources, education, healthcare, and more – all while building a culture of generosity and leadership.”
CFHC President & CEO Melissa Curtin applauded the Circle’s leadership and vision.
“The Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County is a powerful example of what happens when community members come together to invest in one another,” said Curtin. “This first grant to the S.T.A.N.D. Mentorship Program reflects the Circle’s deep commitment to empowering youth and strengthening families. We are honored to support their work as part of the CFHC family of funds.”
The evening closed with celebration, community pride, and deep appreciation for the leaders and volunteers who make mentorship programs like S.T.A.N.D. possible.
The Black Philanthropy Circle looks forward to expanding its membership, deepening its impact, and continuing to build a strong philanthropic legacy in Howard County.
To learn more about the S.T.A.N.D. Mentorship Program, visit:
https://www.standmentorship.org/Learn more about how to get involved in the Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County or donate directly to the Circle.