ATLANTA, GA – The Southern Partners Fund (SPF) is celebrating 10 years of excellence in philanthropy in the Southeast by hosting the Inaugural Launch of the Social Justice Institute (SJI) on November 21, 2009. The SPF is a public foundation (501c3) committed to social change and equity for individuals and communities in the South. The organization’s mission is to support rural Southern communities and organizations seeking social, economic, and environmental justice by providing them with financial resources, technical assistance, training, and access to systems of information and power.
The Launch event, “Organizing Power: The Force of Change in the South” includes a full day of workshops addressing relevant social justice topics, an armchair discussion with leaders in the fields of community organizing, philanthropy, and social change movements, and features keynote speaker Rev. Dr. Joseph E. Lowery! Hailed as the “Dean of the Civil Rights Movement,” Dr. Lowery represents a legacy of service and commitment to the nonviolent struggle for the causes of justice, human rights, economic equality, voting rights, peace and human dignity. Dr. Lowery delivered the Benediction on the occasion of President Obama’s inauguration and is the recent recipient of The Presidential Medal of Freedom. Southern Partners Fund will be also be presenting him with a Humanitarian Award for his commitment to social justice and creating a better quality of life for all.
The evening event for the Launch, the Social Justice Leadership and Humanitarian Awards Dinner and Gala recognizes some of the South’s key social change leaders representing philanthropy, grassroots organizing, and service to humanity. Atlanta’s WSB-TV anchor and reporter, Ms. Jovita Moore will be acting as the Mistress of Ceremonies for this honorary evening. Some of the night’s awardees include legendary civil rights activist and President & CEO of the Trumpet Awards Foundation, Ms. Xernona Clayton, as well as R&B star Ne-Yo and his nonprofit organization, the Compound Foundation, for supporting and creating opportunities to be successful for youth in the child welfare system.
Southern Partners Fund invites community partners, philanthropic and business leaders, HBCU and other college and university colleagues, nonprofit professionals, grassroots organizers, and young leaders to share in the excitement of this inaugural event! Sponsorship opportunities for the Launch are available!
For more information on registering for the event visit www.spfund.org or call 404-541-9091 ext. 13.