Associated Black Charities was founded in 1985 to represent and respond to issues of special significance to Maryland’s African American communities. Concerned that needs within these communities were not being adequately addressed, a group of area ministers and businessmen came together to call for an organization that would raise and distribute funds to organizations targeting needs within Maryland’s African American communities. Thus, ABC was born with a $100,000 planning grant from the United Way, three staff members, a dedicated Board of Directors and a cadre of volunteers and donors committed to giving their time, talent and resources to making a difference in Maryland communities.
Since its founding, Associated Black Charities (ABC) has been dedicated to creating strong, healthy, and economically viable communities in order to create a better life, especially for African American children and families. Over the years, ABC has become a respected convener, advocate and grantmaker addressing issues such as: family preservation, HIV/AIDS, health promotion, youth development, community revitalization and economic empowerment. It has been widely recognized for its funding and technical assistance to community and faith-based organizations.
Currently celebrating its 25th Anniversary year, ABC continues to address issues of economic empowerment and wealth building, as well as the growing health disparities impacting communities in the region. With the investment of individual donors, corporations, foundations and other public and private funds, ABC continues to raise and distribute funds to meet the current and emerging needs of African American communities throughout the State of Maryland.