WE'RE MAKING HEADLINES

As 2023 approaches with rising interest rates and widespread predictions of at least a mild recession, some nonprofit leaders are already seeing the effects of rising consumer prices and other economic headwinds on fundraising.

Ciarra Adkins founded the Grand Rapids area’ Black-led Aqume Foundation in June 2021. According to its website, “Aqume, pronounced /ack-me/, stems from the word ‘acme,’ which means the highest point at which someone or something is best, perfect, or most successful.”

AQUME Foundation was created in a response to disparities in generational wealth and resources between white and BIPOC communities.

Ciarra Adkins could not find work in the local legal community for two years. So, she decided to start her own firm. In 2021, Adkins launched Michigan’s first Black-founded and -led foundation, AQUME, which gives the BIPOC community an autonomous presence in the philanthropic space.

Ciarra Adkins formed the first Black-founded and Black-led community foundation in West Michigan with a primary goal to shift the narrative about Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities and philanthropy.

Business owners, incubators and nonprofits are revitalizing historically Black neighborhoods

The Grand Rapids Chamber is excited to celebrate the amazing work that our community leaders are doing to empower and encourage the inclusion of women. This year, our 33rd Annual ATHENA Awards Celebration highlights ten amazing individuals and three impactful organizations that are making a difference each day.

Preston Sain, co-founder of Black Wallstreet Grand Rapids (BWSGR), on Wednesday, June 1, signed a contract with Grand Rapids-based AQUME Foundation to be BWSGR’s fiduciary partner for its $100 million, 16-year capital campaign on which the Business Journal previously reported.

Black Wallstreet Grand Rapids has chosen to partner with the Aqume Foundation, a nonprofit focused on financial planning and investing in communities of color.

The decision comes on the 101-year anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre.

Every plate of soul food coming out of the Candied Yam’s kitchen is helping create a legacy for Jessica Ann Tyson.

Her 44th Street restaurant employs 15 people and she’s now set to open a second location on South Division in Grand Rapids with the help of AQUME Foundation.