Philanthropist Spotlight: Chi-Ante Jones
What makes a philanthropist?
It's Black Philanthropy Month and The Grove Action Fund is excited to celebrate the power and impact of Black Philanthropy in the Carolinas. We're here with a spotlight showing how philanthropy impacts our communities.
Have you ever wondered what makes a philanthropist? We have. Is it the amount you give, where you give, or what you give? It turns out the answer is much more simple than we could have imagined. A philanthropist is someone who gives their time, money, talent, and/or voice to benefit their community. That means it doesn't matter how big or small your gift is; you can make a difference. Black folks in the Carolinas and across the United States routinely give money, time, and even fresh produce (keep reading, you'll see) to support each other. We give generously despite having a smaller share of wealth than other communities.
Generosity is easy; sometimes, you need to see someone else give first.
Throughout the month, we will highlight Black women who give of themselves to support movement work in North and South Carolina. We hope that you'll hear their stories and become a philanthropist too.
Name: Chi-Ante Jones
Hometown: St. Helena, South Carolina
Pronouns: She/Her
How did your philanthropy story get started?
Since I was a child, I have been actively involved in philanthropy. Alongside my great-grandmother, we devoted our time to volunteer work and generously shared the fresh produce from our garden with the elderly members of our community. Furthermore, we consistently made contributions to various churches and teacher union events.
What does philanthropy mean to you?
Philanthropy means being able to support my community and help build the world we want to live in.
How do you support your community?
Through my involvement in organizations I respect as a board member, I am able to make important contributions to my community. Additionally, my dedication to assisting smaller groups across the Carolinas and providing executive directors with peer coaching allows me to use my time and expertise to help others achieve their goals.
How can others get involved and give?
There are plenty of opportunities to get involved! You could commit to monthly donations to local groups or spread the word about groups you respect and follow on social media or with your close circle.
If you’re ready to take the next step and become a philanthropist, give today at cypressaction.org/donate.
