Celebrating Black History
This month, we’re amplifying the voices of our Black community partners, employees, and Campus Ambassadors.
Hear from our own Kendra Scott Family about what Black History Month means to them and the causes they’ve chosen to give back to through our Shop for Good suite. This month, when you shop these styles, 20% of proceeds will give back to organizations that empower Black women and youth.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
To me, Black History Month means the celebration of all of the triumphs and accomplishments Black people have achieved in this country despite tremendous adversity.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I chose the Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF), a public charity supporting scholastic achievement, public service programs, and research initiatives focused on African American women. DREF is the non-profit arm of my illustrious sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated — a sorority founded on the principles of scholarship, service, and sisterhood. I am so proud of what this organization has accomplished in communities across the nation; learn more at deltafoundation.net.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black history is about a celebration of culture, not just for those who are black but those who live in America. Black history is American history! For me, Black History Month is about educating myself, my sons, and others about the contributions that African Americans have made to this country. It’s a true celebration! From what I decide to wear, to the businesses I support, or restaurants and food I decide to eat — it’s all about amplifying the culture and its contributions. For me, this celebration is year round, but during Black History Month it is important to me to showcase that I am proud to be Black, unapologetically.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I choose The Loveland Foundation. Wow, where do I start! This foundation provides support for Black women and girls who might be struggling to afford therapy. Mental health has this stigma in general, but in Black communities, it is not talked about or even acknowledged. The Loveland Foundation provides a list of mental health professionals who not only provide a high quality of care but are also focused on being culturally competent when serving Black women and girls. The Loveland Foundation believes that Black women and girls deserve access to healing and that healing will impact generations!
What does Black History Month mean to you?
To me, Black History Month means the opportunity to celebrate Black history and culture by creating teachable moments for ourselves as well as people of other ethnicities. Black History Month was launched to showcase the contributions of Black Americans in history and to teach Black people the importance of seeing oneself in history. As a Black woman living in America, I must celebrate my experiences every day, not only for myself, but for the large number of people that I know who aren’t able to do so.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I choose to give back to the African American Youth Harvest Foundation. I chose this foundation because it aims to enhance educational resources available to African American and low-income youth in the Austin area.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month has always had a deep and meaningful impact on me and my family since I was a young child. Growing up in the church, it has been a month that represents celebration, history, and culture. Celebrating Black History Month has always given an opportunity to share and create awareness on the deep history and cultural impact that is the foundation of not only our country but the world. Now as a mother, I get excited to see the pride that my son shows in his culture, not only every day, but especially to his friends and in school.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I chose to give back to Raising the Standard Foundation, based in Fort Worth, Texas. As a native Texan, it is exciting to see the impact this foundation has had on under-represented youth in Fort Worth and surrounding areas through education, mentorship, and scholarships. The beautiful women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. have worked so hard to embrace the lives of the youth in this area and have truly had an impact on me all while continuing to change the world through service to all mankind.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is an acknowledgment of the sacrifices of our ancestors and the pride that comes with being a descendant of greatness. Hearing the stories of triumph and perseverance reminds me that there is no limit to what I can achieve. Black history is being made all around us in ways big and small. Just as my ancestors dreamed of me, I dream of the future generations and do my part to make this world a special place for them. The beauty of Blackness lies in the fact that there are so many ways to be Black! Through our many differences, one thing remains constant: to be Black is to be bold, beautiful, and brilliant!
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
The Loveland Foundation puts the mental health and well-being of Black women and girls first. As a Black woman, I know first-hand the many barriers that stand in the way of receiving mental health care. The Black community often looks to Black women for strength and stability. Although Black women make it look easy, even the strongest people need support. The Loveland Foundation’s work to destigmatize mental health and increase access for Black women is important and valuable to me and other women like me!
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month to me is one of many times throughout the year that I feel most proud of not only my African American culture, but my Ghanaian culture as well. I see it as 28 days of educating, advocating, and appreciating all of those who have paved the way for me and all of those who I hope to continue to inspire.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I chose the nonprofit Butterfly Dreamz simply because of their mission. On their website it states that Butterfly Dreamz is a movement that equips girls to lead, to thrive—to live boldly, dream big, and fly high! I believe every little girl deserves to have someone in their corner encouraging them to dream and reach their goals. I had a village of woman to do that for me so I would love to be the reason that someone else is afforded the same opportunities.
Beaded Elisa Gold Pendant Necklace in Iridescent Frosted Glass
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time where we give special attention to Black culture, arts, achievements, and people. I will always enjoy celebrating being Black! Black is beautiful in every aspect and I appreciate that we take a moment to reflect on that each year. This observance is important always.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I choose to give back to Teenshop, Inc. because it is an organization that was founded with the sole purpose of empowering young Black girls. Teenshop uplifts its members through life skill workshops, college preparatory initiatives, and community service projects. Teenshop, Inc. gave me the confidence to fully operate from a place of self-love, trust my intelligence, and it taught me to love all that comes with being a Black woman. Besides these activities, Teenshop encourages its members to build a sisterhood that lasts a lifetime. I give back to Teenshop, Inc. because my experiences there have shaped, and continue to shape, the woman I am becoming today.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
To me Black History Month is the culmination of a year-long celebration of the achievements we have made and a preparation for the Black history we can make tomorrow.
What organization did you pick to give back to and why?
I chose to donate to GirlTrek because encouraging young women to bond and build healthy communities, increase greenspace, and provide safe places to walk is near and dear to my heart.
Meet some of our Kendra Gives Back event partners. This month, use one of the following codes at checkout and 20% of proceeds from your purchase will give back to Black-led organizations.
The Great Khalid Foundation
The Great Khalid Foundation is Khalid’s namesake non-profit organization founded to advance opportunities in music education and inspire students to thrive academically. Through our music education program, scholarship awards, community partnerships, and gift giveaways, we are investing in our children and their future. The Great Khalid Foundation is committed to creating an atmosphere of support and freedom for kids to dream BIG! The FINE ARTS STUDENT EXHIBITION: CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY program aims to increase Black history educational opportunities while providing students with an outlet for self-expression. Middle and high school students across the country are invited to submit original artwork showcasing their understanding and interpretation of Black history. The juried competition awards three student artists with prize money to further invest in their artistic endeavors. For complete program details visit: www.TheGreatKhalidFoundation.org/celebratingblackhistory
KGB Code: GIVEBACK-TGKF
Counselors of Color
Counselors of Color is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that’s mission is to destigmatize mental illness, create a profound directory of mental health professionals of color, provide education on mental illnesses and their risk factors, and make mental health services affordable to all. We aim to do this by recruiting LMHCs, LPCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, Play Therapists, Psychologists, and Psychiatrists of color, then utilizing grants and donations to provide financial assistance to those who are struggling to pay for their services. In addition, we offer LGBTQ+ support groups throughout the U.S. and offer scholarships to graduate students majoring in the field of mental health counseling and social work.
KGB Code: GIVEBACK-COFC
Pinklomein + Her Art, Her Story
Ashley was born in Frankfurt Germany and travelled the world with her family as a military brat. She is currently living in Houston, TX. Ashley’s love for art has cultivated a community of collectors and genuine buyers who truly appreciate the work she puts out. As an artist, she is humble, brave, and always seeking the very best version of herself. Her art reflects everyday people with a focus on women empowerment and positive affirmations.
Her Art Her Story is a platform and creative safe space for women artists, young female adolescents, and creatives to connect with and uplift each other by spreading positive affirmations and the tools to build a solid foundation for the future.
Proceeds for Her Art Her Story will support young female adolescents and women creatives with the tools to build foundations and create awareness of women in arts and entrepreneurship.
KGB Code: GIVEBACK-PINKLOMEIN
Epic Sleepover for The Make It Out Foundation
The Make It Out Foundation was founded with the mission to serve and enhance the lives of students in the St. Petersburg community by providing financial assistance to those attending Florida A&M University as well as students who intend on pursuing a post-secondary education at any college, university, or vocational institute. The founder and CEO, Da’juh Sawyer, wondered why she didn’t see more African American students from her hometown of St. Petersburg, FL, on the campus along with her. She realized that economics, in addition to exposure and mentorship, influence high school students’ ability to pursue a post-secondary education. The members of the MIOF are all current or recent college graduates from Pinellas County, all with the indistinguishable mindset that giving back to our community provides a virtuous cycle that advances everyone’s success. To date, they’ve given out over $25,000 in scholarships and to community efforts throughout the country.
Thanks to Epic Sleepover CEO, Michelle Caston, for helping host this giveback event. They will be offering a sleepover party experience for a lucky participant, in support of The Make It Out Foundation.
KGB Code: GIVEBACK-MAKEIT
Resources & Links
Celebrate Black Literature:
Be a Mentor or Volunteer
Support Black Art and Artists
Support Black Owned Businesses
Beyonce’s Black Parade; a celebrated list of Black owned businesses across all fields.