Momentum: Sustaining Efforts to Improve Life Outcomes Among African-American Males

This report surveys the landscape of efforts underway in philanthropy and civil society and outlines a concrete plan of action for multiple parties committed to tackling the issues facing black males.

Momentum relies on 18 months of qualitative study of the field of philanthropy to highlight policy innovations, philanthropic initiatives, and civil society partnerships that are in some way supported by institutional philanthropy. The authors conducted interviews with leaders in this field across the United States.

After defining the work in the area of black males, this publication analyzes the state of philanthropic response to the crises facing black males. A discussion of challenges to this work and strategic opportunities to advance effective approaches follows. The final section summarizes conceptual frameworks that could be used for individuals and institutions facing differing strengths, resources, and challenges.

The Ford Foundation, which produced this report, is a foundational partner of the Open Society Foundations.