Every act of generosity has a story.
Through Faces of Philanthropy, the Community Foundation of Howard County introduces the people, families, businesses, and fundholders whose generosity is helping shape a stronger Howard County. Each profile offers a personal perspective on what inspires giving and the many ways philanthropy can create lasting impact.
This month, we’re pleased to feature Derrick Leak, who shared his approach to thoughtful giving, strategic philanthropy, and building a legacy of generosity for future generations.
Philanthropy in Action: Derrick Leak is the founding Chair and Advisory Board leader of the Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County (BPCHoCo), a fund at the Community Foundation. The BPCHoCo pools collective resources from donors to support African American and African diaspora communities in Howard County.
Giving Focus: Derrick’s focus is to promote philanthropy, to advance equity and to support nonprofit organizations that address unmet needs of African Americans residing in Howard County.
Why It Matters to Him: When asked why this type of collective giving matters, Derrick said “It’s about building something that will last in perpetuity – something that will be here long after we are gone and will continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of African Americans in Howard County for generations to come.”
CFHC Connection: CFHC was instrumental in getting BPCHoCo started. Former President & CEI Beverly White Seals was an original BPCHoCo Board Member.
As Derrick said, “We are obligated to make a difference.”