BLK & Bold Founders Pernell Cezar (left) and Rod Johnson. BLK & Bold press photo.
The founders of Des Moines, Iowa-based coffee company BLK & Bold have launched a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, making way for direct donations while outlining a 20-year plan for social impact.
The Black-owned roasting company — a certified B Corp that has amassed numerous accolades for its socially driven commitments since its inception in 2018 — has always directed a remarkable 5% of its total profits directly to projects and organizations supporting children in underserved communities.
In an announcement today, the company founded by Rod Johnson and Pernell Cezar said that the “For Our Youth (FOY)” initiative will continue through the nonprofit BLK & Bold Foundation, which provides a structured platform for donors.
“The launch of The BLK & Bold Foundation is a special moment for myself and Pernell,” Johnson said. “Coming out of what would be considered an underserved community ourselves, we recognize and applaud the organizations who, at their core, provide safe spaces for underserved youth.”
Johnson and Cezar will serve on the board of the new organization, which stated the ambitious goal of having a positive impact on 72 million children by 2045.
“The launch of The BLK & Bold Foundation represents a significant milestone in our mission to create lasting social impact,” Cezar said. “As a company, we’ve always strived to create a positive impact, but today, with the Foundation, we’re making an even stronger commitment to make a difference in the lives of those who deserve it, and, equally important, we aim to shine a spotlight on the remarkable organizations already on a path to do more for the youth and community.”
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