During Black Philanthropy Month, Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust Celebrates $125,000 Invested in Philadelphia Communities
Annual Impact Report Highlights 20 Grants and Scholarships Advancing Education, Entrepreneurship, and Community Empowerment
PHILADELPHIA, PA. — In celebration of Black Philanthropy Month, the Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust today released its 2025 Impact Report, highlighting $125,000 in grants and scholarships awarded to 20 students, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations across Philadelphia. The investments reflect the enduring tradition of Black philanthropy: leveraging resources, leadership, and collective action to strengthen communities and create pathways to economic opportunity.
Founded on the vision of civil rights leader and social justice pioneer Rev. Leon H. Sullivan, the Trust continues to advance his belief that economic empowerment is one of the most powerful tools for community transformation. This year’s investments demonstrate how strategic philanthropy can create lasting impact by supporting education, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and community-based solutions.
“Black Philanthropy Month reminds us that giving extends beyond charitable donations. It is about investing in people, building institutions, and creating opportunities that strengthen our communities for generations,” said Portia Fullard, Executive Director of the Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust. “This year’s impact report reflects the power of that commitment and the legacy Reverend Sullivan championed throughout his life.”
Investing in Philadelphia’s Future
The Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust’s 2025 investments were distributed through three signature programs designed to expand opportunity and promote economic self-sufficiency across the city.
Step Up Scholarship Program The Trust awarded 10 scholarships totaling $25,000 to students who are recent high school graduates or currently pursuing postsecondary education. Recipients were selected for demonstrating perseverance, personal growth, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
Moving Mountains Grant Program Through its entrepreneurship initiative, the Trust awarded $50,000 to five Philadelphia-based small businesses. These grants help business owners strengthen operations, increase capacity, reduce risk, and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Pathways to Impact Grant Program The Trust also invested $50,000 in five nonprofit organizations working to advance equity and opportunity across Philadelphia. Supported organizations are expanding access to education, youth mentorship, workforce readiness programs, and food security initiatives.
Black Philanthropy in Action
At a time when communities face growing economic and social challenges, the 2025 Impact Report demonstrates the vital role Black-led philanthropy plays in advancing equity and creating opportunity. The Trust’s investments support emerging leaders, strengthen local businesses, and empower nonprofit organizations that are addressing some of Philadelphia’s most pressing needs.
The report illustrates that Black philanthropy is not simply about giving. It is about building community wealth, expanding access to opportunity, and creating lasting systems of support that enable individuals and organizations to thrive. Through these investments, the Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust is helping carry forward a legacy of self-help, economic empowerment, and collective advancement.
Continuing Reverend Leon H. Sullivan’s Legacy
The release of the 2025 Impact Report comes as the Trust prepares to celebrate its 60th Anniversary Gala, taking place on October 30, 2026, at W Philadelphia. The milestone event will honor the extraordinary legacy of Rev. Sullivan while generating support for the next generation of students, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust continues the legacy of Reverend Dr. Leon H. Sullivan by investing in education, economic opportunity, and community empowerment. Through scholarships, grantmaking, capacity-building, and community partnerships, the Trust creates pathways for individuals and organizations to strengthen their communities, advance self-help and self-sufficiency, and build lasting opportunities across Philadelphia.