2026 The Unpoliticized Blackness. A Brunch.

A Fundraising Brunch supporting graduating HBCU seniors by eliminating educational debt and investing in their futures. PowerOurFuture Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to tackling one of the biggest barriers facing graduating college seniors today: finish line debt. Too many Black students earn their degree, only for an outstanding balance to stand between them and crossing the stage into the future they deserve. That's why each year, the PowerOurFuture Fund works to eliminate outstanding balances for graduating college seniors, empowering them to step freely into their futures. Last year, we launched our inaugural Unpoliticized Blackness: A Brunch as the official kickoff to our PowerOurFuture fundraising season. Thanks to the generosity of our attendees and donors, we eliminated the remaining balance for two graduating HBCU seniors. Here are their stories: Elise Garner (Howard University) | $4,000 awarded: An international student from Trinidad and Tobago pursuing a degree in Economics, Elise shared, "Receiving this support means more than I can even express. It allowed me to focus on my studies without the constant weight of financial stress." Jayla McCullough (Coppin State University) | $4,630 awarded: A former Miss Coppin State University majoring in Elementary Education, Jayla shared, "Clearing this barrier allows me to step into my purpose fully. I can begin my career focused on teaching and mentorship, not survival." Elise and Jayla are why we brunch! On Sunday, October 18, 2026, we invite you to join us for the Second Annual Unpoliticized Blackness: A Brunch in Baltimore City. Together, we'll celebrate purpose-driven leadership, build meaningful connections, and honor exceptional changemakers through our WayMaker Award Presentation, all while investing in the next generation of HBCU graduates through the PowerOurFuture Fund. Will you toast to the power of collective impact? If your answer is yes (and we're betting that it is), join us in amplifing opportunity, erasing barriers, and opening doors. Most importantly, come ready for connection and the joy of giving. Can't attend? Have your impact felt by donating the cost of a ticket to help HBCU graduates cross the stage debt-free.