Spotlight on the board chair for the Amandla Fund for Economic & Racial Justice 

For Derrick Johnson, philanthropy is about helping others. In his role as board chair of the Amandla Fund for Economic and Racial Justice, he seeks to create a lasting framework to support future generations. 

The Amandla Fund is a philanthropic organization that works with other Black philanthropic groups in Richmond. It advances economic and racial justice for Richmond’s Black communities through investments in education, healthcare and community development. 

Last year, the Amandla Fund provided a $200,000 grant for the Southside Community Development and Housing Corporation’s pilot program to advance Black homeownership in Richmond. 

“We want to give back,” Johnson said. “I believe there’s an obligation to give back.” 

August is Black Philanthropy Month, an annual event dedicated to honoring Black giving, promoting funding equity and uplifting Black philanthropic leadership and community support throughout the month. 

Although “philanthropy” is often associated with wealthy donors and large foundations, Black philanthropy refers to the tradition of giving money, time and resources within Black communities. This tradition includes everyday acts of generosity and community support and is rich in both diversity and impact. 

Johnson credits his Louisville upbringing for shaping his understanding of the need for giving that addresses systemic inequities in the Black community. He was born in the city’s public housing, but in 1955 his parents saved enough to buy a home in a working-class suburb. The family of eight lived in a 900-square-foot house, where he saw firsthand the power of people helping one another. 

“Black people have always helped each other,” he said. “We didn’t call it philanthropy. We called it helping each other.” 

Responsibility came early for Johnson. He married while in high school, and he and his wife welcomed their first son before graduation. At 18, he began working at Philip Morris to support his family. He later earned a bachelor’s degree and a juris doctorate, rising through the ranks to run the company’s Louisville facility before relocating to Richmond. 

“I want to help people the way I was helped. “I didn’t get here by myself,” he said, referring to his career success. 

Now retired, Johnson’s focus is on creating pathways to prepare Black people for generations to come. For him, philanthropy is not just about money, but about love, responsibility and legacy. 

Where do you live? 

Chesterfield County. 

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a juris doctorate, both from the University of Louisville. 

Can you tell us about your family?

I have three children and three grandchildren. 

What is the Amandla Fund for Economic & Racial Justice?

It is a fund started in 2020 to counter 400 years of systemic racism. We know that it will not be done overnight or in our lifetime, but we must begin the work now and build the infrastructure so that the work will go on for as long as it takes. 

What is its mission?

Our mission is to mobilize long-term investments to strengthen the Black community and achieve racial justice. 

When did you become involved with the Amandla Fund?

I have been involved since the inception in June 2020. I got involved because I saw an opportunity to be a part of something that could have a lasting impact. 

When were you elected board chair?

The Amandla fund is a partnership between SisterFund, a Black women’s giving circle, Ujima, a Black men’s giving circle, and the Community Foundation of Greater Richmond. When we started, the chairs of the two giving circles, Evette Roots and I, were co-chairs. When Evette left, I became chair. 

When and why was it founded?

The three partners saw the need and took action to correct historical wrongs. 

Explain the name.

Amandla was a rallying cry for the Black people of South Africa during the fight to end apartheid. It is the Nguni word for power and strength. It is pronounced “ah-MOND-la”. 

Who are your board members?

The members comprise an advisory committee to the Community Foundation. The members are: Jovan Burton, Jill Coleman, Rasheeda Creighton, Robert Dortch, Greta Harris, Dionne Henderson, Derrick Johnson, Cynthia Newbille, Joeffrey Trimingham and Albert Walker. 

What does the Amandla Fund provide to Richmonders?

A funding vehicle for pathways to economic and racial justice. We are in our second year of homeownership in partnership with Southside Community Development & Housing Corporation. Altria and the Community Foundation have provided funding for 30 families to become homeowners. 

What is your top priority as board chair?

My priority has been to lay the groundwork for long-term success, establishing a direction that remains true to our mission for decades to come. 

What is your biggest challenge as board chair?

To listen and learn in order to facilitate the best possible outcomes. 

Why is philanthropy more important than ever?

We cannot depend on the government or others to provide the time and treasure needed to make change happen. We have to be our own heroes. 

What is Black philanthropy?

Black philanthropy is what it has always been—people helping people. Black people have always been there for others. We used to call it by other names, but it is not new. Whether it was a meal for a stranger or an elder, or sharing what little you had because someone else had less. Maybe we call it philanthropy today, but we always shared. 

Why is Black philanthropy particularly vital for our communities?

Nobody cares for your people like you do. Some of us have more to share, and we should remember the lessons of those who came before us and made a way. 

Why is philanthropy and the Amandla Fund meaningful to you?

Because we have an opportunity to make a difference. If we remove systemic barriers, we can help those who may be barred from getting an education. 

What are some myths about philanthropy?

That white people give and Black people take. That Philanthropy is only about money or that everyone who gives does it for the right reasons. 

Who does the Amandla Fund with?

We will partner with all who share our vision. The Community Foundation, Altria Group and Dominion Energy have been generous with their support. 

What is the 2025 budget for the Amandla Fund and how do you determine the fund distribution ?

We have a bit over $3 million. And we know that is not nearly enough to do the necessary work. We have a process to decide where to invest funds. We identify a root cause gap; evaluate what is truly effective; pilot initiative(s); and support the scaling of proven approaches. 

How can our readers participate in the Amandla Fund?

Donations are welcome, of course. Share your ideas and successes. Partner with us to identify systemic solutions. 

What is the process for receiving a philanthropic gift from the Amandla Fund?

For any entity to receive a grant, there must be a proposal that addresses a systemic issue, has quantifiable success metrics, and is scalable. 

How do you start your day?

Coffee, news and notes to myself. 

Who is your dream dinner party guest?

Malcolm X. 

What are the three words that best describe you?

Passionate, logical and easy. 

What are the top three on your musical playlist?

95 South, “A Change is Gonna Come,” by Sam Cooke and “Easy,” by The Commodores. 

What is a quote that inspires you?

“Change what you can’t accept; accept what you can’t change, and know the difference.” 

Who has had the most influence in your life?

My maternal grandmother. 

What’s a book that has influenced you?

“Go Tell It on the Mountain,” by James Baldwin. 

What are you currently reading?

The Atlantic. 

What is next for you?

We will see!