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PAID FOR AND POSTED BY
FUND II FOUNDATION
This is not only the right thing to do but also smart, says Linda
Wilson, the executive director of Fund II Foundation. A recent
national economics poll determined that black and brown Ameri-
1.2 million cans hold a combined buying power of $2.8 trillion, and of those
The number of people in the U.S. spenders, half in each group are under 35. ìThey are the future and
touched by Fund II grants and programs
the most untapped talent force of our nation,î says Ivana Jackson,
the internX program manager.
$241 million
Started in 2018, internX has a goal of placing 1,000 interns this
The amount of grants awarded by Fund II
year and 10,000 in 2020. But Fund IIís commitment to young people
$89.81 million of color doesnít stop with STEM careers; its attention to music, art
The amount Fund II has awarded in grants and environmental education is every bit as strong. ìMusic and art
on education and scholarships provide balance to young people,î Wilson says, ìinstilling a sense of
$39.5 million peace while increasing aptitude.î
The amount Fund II has spent on
cultural preservation
Restoration Retreat
$24 million
The amount Fund II has awarded in music In 2018, Fund II developed yet another signature program, one that
& arts appreciation grants allows young people to commune with nature, while also ìproviding
$16.52 million much needed respite to heal and inspire,î Wilson says. For its inau-
gural event, Restoration Retreat hosted 35 boys of color from tough
The amount Fund II has spent on career
readiness circumstances on a retreat to the Colorado Rocky Mountains. They
received life-skills coaching, financial literacy and entrepreneurial
training, as well as instruction in mentorship, yoga and meditation.
They also pursued outdoor adventures like archery, fly fishing,
hiking and horseback riding.
This yearís event included a separate retreat for girls. They each
Programs like Restoration Retreat create inspiring scenes that Fund
II leaders intend to replicate nationwide: children of color participating
and excelling in careers, stewardship and life. ìWe at Fund II are
committed to ensuring African Americans prosper through scientific,
political, cultural and social capital. We are proud of our grantees and
collaborators because their work pays tribute to our ancestors who are