A Profit Strategist's Approach to Uplifting HBCUs

A simple question keeps Cherelle James awake at night: "Am I doing my part?"

For Cherelle, legacy is built every day through acts of kindness, generosity, and leadership. Cherelle is a profit strategist for My Local CFO and Alumni President of Elizabeth City State University, a historically black college and university (HBCU) in North Carolina.

The host of the 'Giving While Black' podcast, Barron J. Damon, recently spoke with Cherelle about her background and philanthropic efforts. The podcast aims to uplift and amplify Black philanthropy, and Cherelle was a perfect fit because of her unwavering commitment to marginalized students aspiring for higher education.

Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have been pillars of knowledge and empowerment in the African-American community for over a century. As the world learns more about their contribution, dynamic leaders like Cherelle step forward to advocate and act.

The Family Tradition of Philanthropy

Cherelle's background as a "military brat," as she fondly refers to herself, instilled in her the importance of community and giving back. Cherelle was inspired by her grandparents' acts of kindness and how they uplifted their community in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Her family's acts of kindness deeply influenced Cherelle's entry into the world of giving. Her grandparent's home was a refuge for many, a place where children in the community found comfort and warmth. From rebuilding cars for single mothers to providing warm meals for those in need, their actions demonstrated the purest form of community service.

She reminisces about how her mother carried on the family tradition with caring acts like making multiple car trips to school so that neighborhood children didn't have to make the long walk in extreme weather conditions. With the wisdom imparted by her mother — to always leave a place better than how one found it — Cherelle is on a mission to make a tangible impact in the world.

From her grandparents to her mother's selfless acts, Cherelle was constantly surrounded by giving. This upbringing instilled in her the belief that you don't need to have vast resources to make a difference. Every little act counts.

Importance of Supporting HBCUs

Elizabeth City State University also played a key role in shaping Cherelle's identity and success. She attributes her personal and professional growth to the knowledge gained at the institution and the invaluable connections formed with fellow students.

Currently, she serves as the president of the Raleigh Durham Wake Chapter, the largest Alumni Chapter for Elizabeth City State University, and on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. In her leadership roles, Cherelle is laser-focused on ramping up scholarships for incoming students and those already pursuing their degrees.

By amalgamating funds from alumni, Cherelle hopes to multiply their impact, ensuring that Elizabeth City State University's legacy is maintained and elevated. Cherelle underlines the significance of contributing financially as an alumnus, explaining that modest donations when combined with others, can result in a substantial positive impact.

Transforming the Lives of Students

But Cherelle's mission doesn't end with her alma mater. She is deeply involved with a pilot school program called AMI Kids Infinity Wake in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The program's mission is to transform the lives of students who have faced challenging circumstances. The goal is to inspire hope within a nurturing environment that emphasizes daily affirmations and holistic support.

Following a conversation with students, Cherelle was moved to create a safe haven for them within the school, a multipurpose room that serves as a creative, artistic library space. Her vision for this space includes resources allowing the students to engage in self-care, express themselves through art, and explore literature that speaks to their needs, regardless of their reading level.

Cherelle and a dedicated team that includes acclaimed interior designer Carniola Renee Hill are working to bring this dream to life. As she fondly calls it, this "summer project" embodies the power of a community coming together to make a lasting difference in the lives of these remarkable young learners.

For more stories of inspiration and transformation, check out the Giving While Black podcast. We celebrate the incredible impact of black individuals and people of color who are actively giving back to their communities.