PHILADELPHIA — In honor of Black History Month, the Mayor’s Office of Black Male Engagement (OBME) is hosting “The Black Generational Wealth Series.” The four-part financial empowerment series will take place weekly throughout the month of February.
The goal of the series is to empower Black men with the information and resources needed to build and maintain generational wealth. Each seminar features professional panelists with relevant experience and unique insight, covering topics such as financial literacy, engaging City resources, entrepreneurship and transferring wealth.
“Access to wealth—or the lack thereof—within the Black community is one of many systemic issues that have stifled Black people in Philadelphia and across America for too long,” said Eric Westbrook, Director for the Mayor’s Office of Black Male Engagement. “Historically, Black people have been locked out of personal, professional and economic opportunities because of the lack of generational wealth in our families. We want to change that. The Black Generational Wealth Series is meant to serve as a starting point, giving members of the community ways to learn more about the tools they need to start developing financial security for themselves and their families.”
The Black Generational Wealth Series is part of OBME’s My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Action Academy. MBK Action Academy aims to close the opportunity divide for Black men and boys in Philadelphia. The bi-monthly series brings together government and community leaders to offer workshops, resources and networking opportunities across the city that are relevant to Philadelpha’s Black men and boys.
While The Black Generational Wealth Series is targeted toward Black men, all residents are welcome to attend. All four events are free, and registration is available online (links below).
Event Details
Tuesday, February 4 — Money Moves: A Workshop on Personal Financial Literacy
This personal financial literacy panel will cover tips on personal banking, credit building, investments, taxes, home ownership vs. renting, retirement, savings, budgeting, managing debt and more.
Location: Community College of Philadelphia, West Regional Center, 4725 Chestnut Street
Tuesday, February 11 — Building Blocks: Opportunities to Rebuild with the City of Philadelphia
Attendees will learn more about the opportunities available with Rebuild—Mayor Kenney’s investment of hundreds of millions of dollars to revitalize parks, recreation centers and libraries—as well as other City construction projects. Speakers will also share best practices for finding and securing City contracts.
Location: Philadelphia City Archives, 548 Spring Garden Street
Tuesday, February 18 — Grand Opening, Grand Closing: Building a Business that Lasts
This informational workshop will feature Black business owners sharing advice on how to build a sustainable business in Philadelphia. Speakers will discuss marketing, financial health, customer service, and more.
Location: Quorum at University City Science Center, 3675 Market Street
Tuesday, February 25 — Planting the Seeds of Wealth: Transferring Knowledge to the Next Generation
A panel of civic leaders and entrepreneurs will host a discussion about building and transferring wealth to the next generation. The event will include practical information and resources about estate planning, insurance, tangled titles, and other financial tools.
Location: Dobbins CTE High School, 2150 W. Lehigh Avenue