CINCINNATI (June 14, 2024) – United Way of Greater Cincinnati (UWGC) is seeking applicants for a new class of Champions of Change, a one-year leadership and design program whose participants devise solutions to problems impacting the local Black community.

As part of United Way’s Black-Led Social Change initiative, Champions of Change brings together community leaders with diverse backgrounds, skills and perspectives. They participate in a series of leadership and design experiences alongside grassroots leaders, systems-change leaders and other experts. Champions tap their knowledge and skills to design and test collaborative solutions to problems disproportionately affecting the Black community of Greater Cincinnati. 

The first Champions of Change class convened in 2019. The work of its 13 members led to the creation of UWGC’s Black Empowerment Works grant program, which since 2020 has invested more than $5 million in 130 Black-led projects.

The new class of Champions will build upon that work. The aim is that investment in Black-led work will evolve beyond funding to foster a connected ecosystem of changemakers positioned to drive collaborative improvement in the Black community.

Champions will receive a $2,500 stipend for their participation.

To learn more or to apply, visit uwgc.org/champions. To apply via mobile phone, text “Champion” to 51555. Applications will be accepted until June 30.

For more information, email [email protected] or call Andraya Mays at 513-762-7118. A virtual information session is set for 6-7:30 p.m. June 26.

Sponsored by:

United Way of Greater Cincinnati (UWGC) fights for the economic well-being of all people in Greater Cincinnati so our entire community can thrive – now and in the future. Founded in 1915, UWGC is one of the region’s largest nonprofit organizations. It is committed to working alongside policymakers, community partners and donors to promote educational success, financial empowerment and housing security. Learn more about UWGC’s work across nine counties in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana at UWGC.org. #UnitedWeThrive