How the Tom Joyner Foundation Supports the HBCU Community

There are numerous foundations in the United States as well as in other countries that are geared toward helping educational institutions develop programs and open opportunities for those who can’t afford college to obtain their degree. Historically Black Colleges and Universities are fortunate to have foundations like the Tom Joyner Foundation to support their students, faculty, and staff. Many HBCUs are struggling and they need every help they can get from foundations, non-government organizations, and generous sponsors.

Who They Are

For those who are not yet familiar with the Tom Joyner Foundation, it was founded by Tom Joyner in 1998. He is nationally syndicated radio personality and since then, his foundation never failed to support HBCUs by providing scholarships, financial assistance, and many more. The foundation aims to sustain and preserve the aspirations of these universities which is why it still exists after all these years. Further, it is the foundation’s goal to expose students to different educational opportunities that will help them finish college and prepare them for their chosen profession.

What They Do

So what exactly does the Tom Joyner Foundation do? For starters, it is dedicated to help HBCUs since 1998. The foundation organizes fundraising activities as well as solicits assistance from donors to come up with enough resources to help HBCUs. So far they are able to raise up to $60 million which was used to help over 20,000 students of HBCUs. In addition, they also offered internships, grants, and other career development initiatives to help students.

Services They Provide

The Tom Joyner Foundation partnered with other organizations in order to develop programs that are beneficial to both students and teachers of HBCUs. A very good example is how they assist teachers in obtaining their certifications. There are also various scholarships offered through the foundation such as the Hercules Scholars, First Generation College Students Scholarships, Scholar of Honor, and Single Parent Scholarship Support. All of these are offered in HBCUs particularly to deserving students.

Aside from helping students and teachers, the Tom Joyner Foundation also expanded their services to communities that cooperate and support the programs of HBCUs. They partnered with government agencies as well as national and community based organizations.

The Joyner Foundation will always be there to support the programs of HBCUs throughout the country. To know more about the foundation and how to avail of their services, you can contact them or visit their website.

Website: www.tomjoynerfoundation.org/
twitter: @TomJoynerFound
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tom-Joyner-Foundation/7553614457

Photo courtesy of The Tom Joyner Foundation