Reflections on ABFE’s 2024 Corporate Community of Practice Retreat
I recently gathered with an extraordinary group of Black leaders in corporate philanthropy for ABFE’s second annual Corporate Community of Practice (CCoP) Retreat in Birmingham, Alabama. Set against the backdrop of the Magic City Classic—the nation’s largest HBCU homecoming—the retreat fostered dialogue, connection, and action.
Ebony Skinner, Senior Project Manager at the Humana Foundation and ABFE member shared: “I was honored to attend ABFE’s Corporate Community of Practice retreat right here in my home base of Birmingham, AL. As a first-time participant, I was deeply moved by the intimate and unfiltered conversations shared among Black leaders in corporate philanthropy. The retreat provided a unique space to explore the root causes of critical issues and collaborate on transformative ideas for systemic change. It was an inspiring experience, offering the opportunity to engage in powerful discussions and work collectively to support and uplift Black communities.”
As the manager of ABFE’s Corporate Community of Practice Network, convening in Birmingham was both a privilege and a responsibility. Success for this retreat meant that attendees felt their time and investment were worthwhile, and left feeling more inspired and better connected. It was an opportunity to not only foster meaningful dialogue but to also cultivate a sense of collective purpose.
Over three days, we engaged in transformative conversations, workshops, and networking, all focused on advancing racial equity within corporate giving. For many, it wasn’t just another convening—it was a space to recharge, learn, and recommit to creating lasting change in the communities we serve.
-Deepening Impact Through Partnerships-
Birmingham was an ideal setting to reflect on the power of partnerships, with its strong presence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Historically Black Community Colleges (HBCCs). Alabama, renowned for its Southern cuisine and civil rights history, leads the nation with most institutions dedicated to Black excellence and empowerment – making it the perfect location for our second annual retreat.
We heard from Black educational leaders like Miles College Bobbi Knight, who emphasized that investing in HBCUs means supporting innovation, student success, and workforce development. Alabama Power Foundation and Southern Company shared their workforce development partnership with Alabama’s HBCUs and HBCCs, boasting a 96% career placement rate.
-Creating Equity in Corporate Philanthropy-
We tackled disparities in corporate giving during the retreat, and examined how to ensure Black communities receive their fair share of philanthropic resources and drive sustainability efforts that benefit marginalized groups. These tough but essential conversations focused on building systems that actively dismantle inequities. As leaders, we asked ourselves: How are we holding our institutions accountable? How are we amplifying grantee voices?
-Breaking Bread and Building Community-
One of the most memorable moments of the retreat was sharing a meal at Jones Valley Farm with Alabama Power Foundation’s Legacy Partners. Sitting in community with fellow changemakers—nonprofits, educators, legislators, and organizers—was a reminder of why we do this work.
-Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future-
The retreat culminated with visits to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery. These stops were not just historical reflections—they grounded our work in the ongoing fight for justice.
The Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice reminded us of the racial violence and systemic injustice that shaped this nation, but also inspired us to pursue a future where equity is a reality. On the final evening, we celebrated alongside Alabama Power and other companies during Magic City Classic Grove Weekend. The event highlighted their $1.5 million investment in Alabama HBCUs & HBCCs, showcasing the impact of collective action.
Spaces like ABFE’s Corporate Community of Practice Network are rare and invaluable for Black leaders in corporate philanthropy. They provide a sanctuary to connect, exchange ideas, and amplify our work. If you’re a Black leader ready to join a community committed to advancing racial equity, contact ABFE’s Networks & Partnerships team at [email protected].
Special thanks to our fearless leaders and ABFE Members at Alabama Power Foundation, Marsha Morgan, Staci Brooks, and Sherrika Allen for their immense support to ABFE and the Corporate Community of Practice during the retreat.