Making the invisible visible in nonprofit courses: A case study of African American-led nonprofits

ABSTRACT

Examining minority-led nonprofit organizations provides an opportunity to promote cultural competency education within nonprofit specializations. This case study, which focuses on three African American-led nonprofits, serves as an educational resource to examine 1) leadership and mission, 2) program and service delivery, and 3) impacts and outcomes. Common characteristics across these organizations include strong ties to their respective communities, programs that embed cultural awareness, and positive outcomes among the youth served. This case study provides a resource to make African American-led organizations more visible in nonprofit and public affairs courses.

KEYWORDS:

• African American
• cultural competency
• leaders
• nonprofit
• youth

Notes

^1. Financial status was not a key element for the selection of these three nonprofits. While financial health is important for nonprofits to achieve their goals, the major selection criteria were based on the nonprofits’ recognition for program impacts and strong community reputation.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Susan Gooden

Susan T. Gooden is interim dean and professor in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. Gooden is a past president of the American Society for Public Administration, and she is an elected fellow of the congressionally chartered National Academy of Public Administration.

Lindsey Evans

Lindsey L. Evans is a senior research associate in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Her research focuses on social equity, program evaluation, and policy analysis. Evans is engaged in several research initiatives designed to promote social equity and focuses on examining programs and policies aimed at eliminating disparities.

Yali Pang

Yali Pang is a PhD candidate in Public Administration and Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Virginia Commonwealth University. Her academic focus is in the area of nonprofit management, social equity and cultural competency.