Associated Black Charities

Associated Black Charities is SO PROUD of our President and CEO for her acknowledgement as one of 57 Daily Record 2024 Influential Marylanders! Influential Marylanders was created in 2006 to honor people who have made significant impacts in their field and continue to be leaders in Maryland. These individuals are selected by The Daily Record’s editors for their significant contributions to their respective fields and for their leadership in Maryland in the following areas: civic leadership; communications; education; finance; freestyle; general business; health care; law; philanthropy; real estate; and technology. Three-time winners are inducted into the Circle of Influence.

Welcome to our "First" Friday series! In alignment with ABC's role as an educator, advocate, and supporter to eliminate race-based structural barriers, we consistently uplift Black individuals who are a "first" in their field or industry. Shariah Harris’s journey is a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication. Growing up in Philadelphia, Shariah was introduced to polo through the Work to Ride program, an organization aimed at helping underserved youth through equestrian activities. Her passion for the sport quickly grew, and she dedicated herself to mastering the game. Harris’s impressive skills and determination led her to Cornell University, where she continued to excel in polo while pursuing her studies. At Cornell, she played on the varsity polo team, further honing her abilities and gaining invaluable experience on the field. Her historic entry into the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championships marks a significant milestone, not just for her personally, but for the sport as a whole. Shariah’s presence on this prestigious stage challenges stereotypes and breaks barriers, inspiring countless young athletes, especially girls of color, to pursue their dreams in sports traditionally dominated by others. Beyond her athletic prowess, Shariah is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in polo and other equestrian sports. She leverages her platform to encourage greater representation and access, striving to make these sports more inclusive for future generations. ABC celebrates and highlights Shariah Harris's trailblazing legacy!

Interested in learning more about Black Leadership Circle Membership? JOIN US FOR A MEMBERSHIP INTEREST MEETING. Register: https://lnkd.in/ewuScHCn Prospective members applying to join The Black Leadership Circle should be able to demonstrate these criteria and characteristics to contribute effectively to the group's mission and objectives: Executive Level Leader in Greater Baltimore Region: Hold an executive-level leadership position representing interests in the Greater Baltimore Region. Demonstrate a track record of successful leadership and decision-making in their professional role. Community Influencer: Have a proven history of influencing positive change within the community. Show active involvement in community development initiatives, programs, or projects. Mentorship Experience: Have experience as a mentor, guiding and supporting individuals in their personal or professional development. Provide evidence of the impact of mentorship on mentees' growth and achievements. Commitment to Guiding Principles: Demonstrate a strong commitment to the guiding principles of The Black Leadership Circle. Express alignment with the mission, values, and goals of the auxiliary group. Diversity and Inclusion Advocate: Advocate for diversity and inclusion in both professional and community settings. Show a commitment to promoting equal opportunities and addressing systemic inequalities. Collaborative Spirit: Display a collaborative spirit and willingness to work with others towards common goals. Showcase instances of successful collaboration in previous professional or community endeavors. Ethical Leadership: Uphold high ethical standards in both professional and personal conduct. Demonstrate integrity and transparency in decision-making and actions. Strategic Thinker: Showcase the ability to think strategically and contribute innovative ideas. Demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to address challenges and opportunities. Continuous Learner: Exhibit a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Provide examples of staying informed about industry trends and community needs.

In today’s diverse and dynamic workplace, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) serve as vital platforms for fostering inclusion, belonging, and professional growth. For Black professionals, ERGs can provide essential support networks, mentorship opportunities, and a collective voice to advocate for equitable policies and practices. These groups are instrumental in creating a sense of community within organizations, where members can share experiences, celebrate cultural heritage, and navigate the unique challenges they face in their professional journeys. ERGs empower Black professionals by offering leadership development programs, workshops, and networking events that enhance career advancement. By participating in these groups, individuals gain access to resources and allies that can help them overcome barriers to success. Additionally, ERGs often collaborate with senior leadership to influence organizational policies and practices, ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) remain central to the company’s mission and operations. This proactive approach not only benefits the members of the ERG but also enriches the organization as a whole by fostering a more inclusive and innovative work environment. However, the journey of leveraging ERGs is not without its challenges. One significant drawback is that ERGs, while beneficial, can sometimes inadvertently create silos within the organization, leading to a separation rather than integration of diverse groups. Additionally, there is the risk of ERG members facing increased visibility and scrutiny, which can lead to additional pressure and stress. Balancing the responsibilities of ERG participation with regular job duties can also be taxing, potentially leading to burnout if not managed properly. It is crucial for organizations to recognize these challenges and provide adequate support to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of ERGs. Despite these challenges, the positive impact of ERGs on Black professionals and the broader organization cannot be overstated. When effectively supported, ERGs can drive meaningful change, promote cultural competence, and contribute to a more equitable workplace. By acknowledging both the benefits and the potential pitfalls, organizations can better leverage ERGs to create an environment where Black professionals not only survive but thrive. Through a committed and thoughtful approach to ERG implementation and support, companies can harness the full potential of their diverse talent, leading to greater innovation, engagement, and success. Join us for an online "Lunch and Learn" to discuss Leveraging Employee Resource Groups on Tuesday, July 30th at 12:00 pm. Register Here: https://bit.ly/EAWJULY

In our role as an Advocate, Broker, and Convener, Associated Black Charities is excited to partner with Maryland Philanthropy Network to convene our next 2024 Baltimore Black Racial Equity Organization Summit! During our time together on July 23rd, we are inviting other local organizations focused on racial equity for the Black community, to have an interactive discussion around Equitable Funding For Black Organizations. We invite you to join us for a crucial session dedicated to discussing equitable funding for Black organizations. This is your platform to share your experiences, amplify your voice, and contribute to shaping a more equitable funding landscape. We will host a follow up meeting in September with Philanthropic Organizations. The summit has limited capacity. Space has been reserved for invited Baltimore Black Racial Equity Organizations and additional space is available (first come, first served) for other interested persons, leaders, and organizations. All registrations will be confirmed. PLEASE REGISTER HERE: https://lnkd.in/emeRmPbP

*Just Added* Do not miss your chance to see the legendary Janet Jackson live this weekend! Head to https://lnkd.in/eY3zqPK9 to grab your tickets before they are gone!

ABC congratulates our President and CEO on her appointment! The Baltimore County Human Relations Commission (HRC) was established in 1963 and enforces the County’s antidiscrimination law and is responsible for providing resources to citizens who believe they have been discriminated against. The HRC also administers the mediation program, conducts studies and surveys, cosponsors human relations events, develops programs to promote harmony and understanding among all people, hosts training workshops, provides technical assistance, responds to hate and bias incidents, recognizes the work of individuals and organizations, sponsors forums and banquets, and works with community groups to address and resolve human relations issues.

ABC Gala 2024 Highlights If you were there, relive the magic. If you missed it, catch a glimpse of what made this night so special and why you won't want to miss it next year!

Interested in Attending Shows at CGF Arena? To find more exciting shows at CFG Arena and to support ABC's mission work, visit It's Showtime With ABC where you can purchase tickets for all currently available events. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enjoy world-class entertainment while contributing to a great cause, made possible through our partnership with Oak View Group and CFG Arena. https://lnkd.in/eY3zqPK9