Nike Unveils Black History Collection and Local Investment Grantees

Nike announced the 2022 national partners and local grantees for NIKE, Inc.’s $140 million Black Community Commitment which invests in organizations focused on social justice, education innovation, and economic opportunity for Black Americans. “Nike’s purpose is to move the world forward ­– breaking barriers and building community to change the game for all. Our Black Community Commitment embodies this belief and drives how Nike is showing up to advance racial equality for Black Americans,” said Karol Collymore, Senior Director of Inclusive Community for Social & Community Impact at NIKE, Inc.

Local investments this year total $2.75 million across 44 organizations nationwide in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, Memphis, St. Louis, and Boston. Chicago grantees include the following organizations:

  • CHI Gives Back ($40,000) – CHI Gives Back’s mission is to provide teachers and students alike with skills, tools, and experiences to be successful.
  • Lawndale Christian Development Co. ($50,000) – Christian Development Corporation (LCDC) is committed to improving the lives of North Lawndale residents by providing affordable housing, addressing economic challenges, promoting homeownership, and facilitating community organizing.
  • Think Outside da Block ($40,000) – Think Outside da Block is an organization with a vision to rally the community together to enhance youth interests, skills, and abilities through positive youth development strategies. TODB is seeking to educate, engage, and empathize with local youth by providing support through productive activities and communication.
  • Brave Space Alliance ($50,000) – Brave Space Alliance is the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ Center located on the South Side of Chicago, dedicated to creating and providing affirming, culturally competent, for-us by-us resources, programming, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals on the South and West sides of the city.

National grant recipients include Son of a Saint, All Star Code, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, and the Equal Justice Initiative.

In addition, Nike also unveiled their new Black History Month Collection. The collection celebrates Black heritage with the goal of creating awareness, inspiring athletes, and fueling dialogue and action to create positive change. At the heart of this year’s collection is the Nike Air Force 1 Low FM By You, with three distinct palettes designed by Black creators.

Materials include a translucent option that transforms to reveal an intricate pattern and wear-away leather panels revealing colors inspired by the flags of Caribbean and African countries. There is also an option to record your own story with a personalized, laser-etched message on the shoe.

Karol Collymore said, “Nike’s strategic investments across the U.S. have the power to drive transformative change, and we applaud each and every grantee for their focus and passionate commitment to reach and uplift their community.”

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