Givelify on Times of Challenge and Controversy
The heart of our mission is to instantly connect people to the causes that inspire them to action. This begins with us and specifically, me. I would like to share the measures that we are taking to be part of the solution to ending systemic racism. It’s time to address the measures we are taking, and the stance of Givelify in times of challenge and controversy.
The death of George Floyd has caused a myriad of emotions, including anger, pain, and confusion. He, unfortunately, joins a long list of beautiful lives taken far too early, including the most recent ones of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor.
My deepest condolences are to the Floyd, Arbery, and Taylor families and all of the other numerous families and communities who have been impacted by these senseless acts.
Like you, I am heartbroken. These tragedies happen far too often and reflect an unjust system. On behalf of Givelify, I stand firm in joining the voices of our brothers, sisters, colleagues, and friends in calling an end to systemic racism.
As a Black founder, who has experienced racism professionally and personally, I recognize the need for urgent action. Two things we are doing:
1) Resources for Allyship
Our internal All-Hands Meeting on Wednesday was a first step in taking measures to encourage real and honest conversations. We will continue to provide a safe space to discuss systemic racism and the need for justice, peace, and equality for all. We will also provide resources for continual learning, support, and allyship.
2) Lasting Impact Through Education and Career Development
Givelify is one of the most successful bootstrapped success stories in the tech world because we have fully embraced the possibilities that diversity, inclusion, and equity bring to the workplace.
Meanwhile, in the top 50 US tech companies, only 9% of employees are Black and 7% are Latino. While Givelify prides itself on our diverse and talented team, we also know that the industry needs to improve. Thus, we are ever more committed to changing the future of tech to one that reflects the true diversity of our country.
In 2019, we donated $20,000 to fund general scholarship programs for students. In 2020, we will double our commitment to $40,000 in scholarships focusing on students entering STEM programs. We have also launched an internal task force to help develop a talent pipeline program focusing on helping Black and Latino students launch their careers in tech.
We look forward to sharing more soon.
In closing, I am reminded of a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
Thank you to the Givelify family for your courage in sharing your perspectives on Wednesday. It’s my hope that we learn and continue to learn from one another.
Let’s continue to lean on each other. Let’s lead with heart and kindness. Let’s lead with love. Let’s do more good together. Let’s change the world together.
In solidarity,
Wale Mafolasire
Founder and CEO, Givelify
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