By: Dr. Laura Ferguson-Mimms
Photo: Rod Wright
The Onyx Giving Circle stands for an important idea in philanthropy: often, the most meaningful gift is one given freely, with no strings attached.
Founded by Dr. Laura Ferguson-Mimms, the Onyx Giving Circle is a group of women dedicated to giving back. Each year during Black Philanthropy Month, they come together to honor a nonprofit leader and offer unrestricted support. The idea is simple but powerful: women join forces to help people and organizations making a real difference in their communities.
The first person to receive the Onyx Giving Circle award was Emerald Mitchell. She is the Founder and CEO of Moves & Grooves, a nonprofit that helps young people through movement, wellness, education, and community activities.
For Mitchell, this recognition meant more than just receiving money. It was a sign that a group of women valued her work and believed in her vision. They told her, Here is our support. Use it where it is needed most.
That difference is important.
Traditional philanthropy often has rules governing how money can be used, such as funding certain programs or meeting specific goals. While those gifts matter, giving without restrictions lets proven nonprofit leaders respond to what their communities need most. It puts trust in the hands of the people doing the work.
The Onyx Giving Circle also shows how women are having a bigger impact in philanthropy. For years, women have helped their communities by volunteering and joining groups like churches, garden clubs, and charities. Giving circles build on that tradition by allowing women to pool their resources and make a greater difference together.
It feels especially right that the first Onyx award went to a woman who leads an organization dedicated to helping others move ahead.
Emerald Mitchell and Moves & Grooves show the kind of community investment that Black Philanthropy Month celebrates: people see a need, create something to help, and inspire others to get involved.
The Onyx Giving Circle shows that philanthropy does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a group of women coming together, believing in someone’s work, opening their hearts, and opening their checkbooks.
Give together. Trust boldly. Make a generous impact.
