The Soul of Philanthropy initiative presents a new chapter in its ongoing narrative of the black giving tradition
From Top: Bracy Lewis, Charles Modlin, M.D., and Yvonne Pointer
Since its understated and professional arrival on the Cleveland scene some three years ago, The Soul of Philanthropy Cleveland — TSOP-CLE for short — has been a consistent model of excellence, regularly promising and then over-delivering. Their latest gift to the city was delivered this past week in the form of the second installment of Celebrate Those Who Give Black, an acknowledgement and celebration of the fact of black philanthropy and the many faces and facets that comprise the rich and historic mosaic of black generosity and self-help.
The new exhibit — the first was on display for two years at the Cleveland History Center, along with the national traveling exhibit that was the genesis of the TSOP-CLE initiative and a host of pre-pandemic public programs — opened to the public this past week in the Louis Stokes Wing of the Cleveland Public Library’s main branch, 525 Superior Ave. [44114]. The exhibit will remain there, just off the front entrance [accessible also from the Eastman Reading Garden] until it moves to its permanent home at the soon-to-be constructed Martin Luther King branch in University Circle. TSOP-CLE’s vision is for the exhibit to be expanded with a new class of philanthropists every two years.
Celebrate Those Who Give Black is a permanent Cleveland exhibition that tells the stories of black philanthropy in Greater Cleveland. In so doing, it helps to fill an enormous gap in the narrative of what the Cleveland black community is all about, what it has been, and what it aspires to be in its best moments.
The individuals whose selfless giving is recognized in the current exhibit illustrate the rich heterogeneity of black life. You can see this unmistakable richness and variety in the faces of the honorees, which are gorgeously captured in the exceptional portraits of each by the exquisitely talented photographer, McKinley Wiley.
This year’s Legacy honorees are the beloved Bracy Lewis, the esteemed Dr. Charles Modlin, and the indefatigable Yvonne Pointer.
The 2021 award recipients are recognized in one of five categories. Legacy honorees are saluted for lifetime achievements. This year’s class comprises the retired banker and beloved community servant Bracy Lewis, the esteemed Dr. Charles Modlin, and the indefatigable community activist Yvonne Pointer.
Emerging Philanthropists can be individuals or families. This year’s group has compiled exemplary records of generosity [time, talent and/or treasure]: Cherish Jackson, Billy Sharp, and Karen Murray.
From Top: Karen Murray, Cherish Jackson and Billy Sharp.
Hidden Philanthropists are the unsung heroes in our community, those who answer the call to do the work but eschew the limelight. Those bright lights found in the bushes this year are Linda Lanier, Michelle Powell and Dr. Rachel Talton.
From Left: Linda Lanier, Michelle Powell, Dr. Rachel Talton
Two categories are recognized by age. Outstanding Young Adult Philanthropists are individuals ages 19-40 who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the community. Archie Green, Veranda Rodgers and Dameyonna Willis are this year’s YAPs.
From Top: Archie Green, Veranda Rodgers and Dameyonna Willis.
Finally, and certainly not least, are the Outstanding Youth Philanthropists, those individuals 18 and under or youth groups or youth-generated projects that have demonstrated extraordinary community commitment. Shamari Brazil and Shawn Starr Wilson are this year’s honorees.
Shamari Brazil [top] and Shawn Starr Wilson
You owe it to yourself to check out this exhibit and learn of the marvelous work of these unselfish individuals whose generosity enriches us all. The exhibit is open during normal main library operating hours, which are 10a-6p Monday through Saturday.
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All photographs by McKinley Wiley of The Dark Room Co.
Last Updated September 6, 2021 at 7:48p.
