Celebrating Black History Month

Every year, the month of February serves as a dedicated time to remember, reflect, and celebrate the many contributions of Black communities.

Black History Month, observed in February in the U.S. and Canada (and in October in the U.K.), is more than a commemoration, it is a call to learn, reflect, and act.

At Soles4Souls, we are honored to work with individuals and organizations that make up and support these communities year-round. The Black History Month celebration reminds us not only of the importance of recognizing history but also of uplifting those creating impact today.

What Is Black History Month and Why Is It Important?

Black History Month began as Negro History Week in 1926, created by historian Carter G. Woodson to highlight African American achievements that were often ignored. In 1976, it expanded to a full month. Today, it honors the resilience, culture, and innovation of Black communities.

• Why it’s celebrated: To honor accomplishments, recognize overlooked history, and promote understanding of systemic racism.
• When did Black History Month begin? 1926 (as a week) and officially expanded to a month in 1976.
• Why February? It coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both central figures in the fight for freedom and equality.

As we celebrate these milestones, we’re also reminded that small, everyday actions matter. Simple steps, like donating essential items or supporting organizations that create lasting opportunities, are meaningful ways to carry this legacy forward all year long.

How People Celebrate Black History Month

Black History Month celebrations take many forms:

• Community Events & Exhibitions: Museums and cultural centers host exhibits to honor achievements.
• Educational Programs: Schools spotlight Black History Month facts, activities, and discussions.
• Digital Storytelling: Social media platforms share short stories highlighting influential figures.

These celebrations also echo the values of access, equity, and opportunity, principles that guide Soles4Souls’ mission. Part of that mission is recognizing the impact shoes can have, since something as simple as footwear can protect health, restore dignity, and open doors to education and employment.

Honoring Partners Making an Impact

Each Black History Month, we honor incredible individuals and organizations that make a difference at Soles4Souls and in their communities across the globe.

St. Louis Public Schools – Dr. Deidra Thomas-Murray, Students in Transition Coordinator and Foster Care Liaison, EdD, MSW

Deidra has been one of our 4EveryKid partners since the program started. She has been honored with the Rosa L. Parks Award for her dedication and impact. We are so thankful for her unwavering commitment to supporting homeless youth in her community.

Her work aligns with our efforts to provide stability and dignity for vulnerable families, similar to the resources we share on supporting people experiencing homelessness.

Urban League of Central Carolina (ULCC) – April Turner, Outreach & Engagement Specialist

ULCC’s mission is to advocate for and equip African Americans and all underserved communities with the tools to achieve social and economic equality. In December 2022, we partnered with ULCC to provide 200 brand new coats during their winterfest event. We are grateful to partner with this amazing organization. 

Power of Life Foundation– Lane Harper, Executive Director 

Lane Harper funded his own acts of service for years, so he created the Power of Life Foundation to expand his mission to help people in the community who need it the most. The foundation hosts events that provide essential items, from clothing to accessories, to students in need, and we are proud to be a continuing partner in this impactful work.

Access to Success  

Over the years, we’ve partnered in their mission to break the cycle of poverty in Nigeria, by sending brand new shoes for youth in their programs. Nigerian founder Andrew Lovedale has worked to educate and strengthen youth communities in the country through his organization programs, like After School Academy and Entrepreneur Success. 

In 2023, Access to Success in Nigeria, opened their “Dignified Giving Center” to provide their community with a private and personalized experience without feeling the weight of needing to ask for what they need. The Dignified Giving Center (DGC) was designed to feel like a boutique within the A2S Youth Center to provide an uplifting shopping experience. Their staff identifies community members in need, they give out credits so folks can visit the DGC and shop for needed items on their own time. Our staff on-ground in Nigeria went above and beyond with this space.

Stories like this remind us that global partnerships don’t just address immediate needs, they also inspire sustainability and long-term impact. That’s why we encourage practices like upcycling shoes  to extend their life, or knowing the right time to replace running shoes so that every donation can go further for those who need it most.

Creative Girls Rock 

Birthed from Charmin A. Bates’s passion for creative arts and youth empowerment, this Nashville-based organization works to empower young girls to utilize their creative talents in unique ways to enhance creativity; and, to foster balanced living, personal growth and happiness. In the summer of 2022, we partnered with them to provide backpacks for their back to school event.   

The Importance of Black History Month Celebration at Soles4Souls

We are deeply grateful for these incredible individuals and organizations whose partnership makes the work of Soles4Souls possible. Each Black History Month offers a meaningful moment to reflect on their impact and to highlight our shared commitment to equity, dignity, and empowerment.

If you’d like to be part of this mission, explore partnership opportunities with Soles4Souls and join us in creating change that endures long after February.