UNCF Celebrates Juneteenth in Philadelphia with a $50,000 Gift from Citizen’s Bank

Philadelphia was alive with celebration and pride as UNCF marked Juneteenth 2024 with a series of impactful events, culminating in presenting a $50,000 check from Citizen’s Bank. This significant donation will not only bolster the Citizens Helping Citizens scholarship, managed by UNCF’s New England office but also make a tangible difference in the lives of the students it supports. It highlights Citizen’s Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting higher education and historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

The festivities began on Friday, June 14, with the Pennsylvania Juneteenth Initiative’s annual “Honor the Ancestors Breakfast,” where UNCF received the Ali Salahuddin Education Award for the second year. The event was a moving tribute to Ali Salahuddin, a renowned educationist and namesake of the Ali Salahuddin Education Award, which aims to encourage and support individuals who have made significant impacts in education. It is attended by notable community leaders and covered by the local ABC affiliate. Richard Lee Snow, UNCF’s Regional Development Director for the Mid-Atlantic Region, accepted the award on behalf of UNCF. Reflecting on the event, Snow shared, “Being a part of an event that makes such a presentation speaks to me as a Black man who works for an organization that epitomizes the phrase, ‘Dear Ancestors.’ I understand the assignment!”

UNCF Gates Millennial Scholar Kyra Williams, at the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade

The celebration continued Sunday, June 16, with the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade, the largest in the county. UNCF Gates Millennium Scholar Kyra Williams proudly represented the organization, riding down historic 52nd Street. Snow highlighted the importance of visibility in the community: “Being intentional about our presence and visibility in the city is one of our top priorities. UNCF cannot continue to do its work without being a seen and known entity in our community. Our student scholars show the truth of what we do.”

The highlight of the Juneteenth celebrations came on June 19 during the Philadelphia Phillies’ Juneteenth game. In a momentous on-field ceremony, UNCF received a $50,000 check from Citizen’s Bank, underscoring their dedication to educational equity and support for HBCUs. Snow, a lifelong supporter of Philadelphia sports, also had the honor of throwing out the first pitch. “It was a ‘bucket list’ experience for me,” he said.

This donation is a testament to the strong partnership between Citizen’s Bank and UNCF, particularly during the Phillies’ Juneteenth game, which also celebrated HBCU Day. The event featured performances by Step Teams from Divine Nine organizations and honored several HBCUs, including Lincoln, Cheyney, Howard, Delaware State, and Morgan. Snow emphasized the significance of the gift, stating, “The event highlighted the tremendous work Citizen’s is doing in supporting the communities in which it has locations.”

UNCF’s strong presence at these events, such as the Juneteenth Parade and the Phillies’ Juneteenth game, showcases its ongoing impact on the Philadelphia community. This reaffirms its mission to support HBCUs and the students it serves, significantly impacting the lives of many. With over $2.5 million provided annually to about 200 students in the area, UNCF’s dedication to education is unwavering. Notably, their partnership with the Philadelphia Orchestra led to the establishment of the Marian Anderson Endowed Scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in the arts.

UNCF Regional Development Director Richard Lee Snow accepts a check from Attorney Helen McCray Salahuddin

Snow concluded, “UNCF has always been a part of such celebrations. Whether it’s Black History Month, MLK Day, or less formal celebrations, we have played a key and vital role. This, and much more, makes our organization one of the most visible and recognized throughout our communities, supporting our mission and growing our brand.”

The Juneteenth celebrations in Philadelphia were a powerful reminder of the importance of community, education and ongoing support for HBCUs. With the generous donation from Citizen’s Bank, UNCF is poised to continue its mission, ensuring that every student can achieve their educational goals.