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History

Founded with a Clear Mission

The PBS Impact Foundation was founded with a clear mission: to amplify the charitable reach 
and collective power of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. through intentional giving, community 
investment, and educational advancement. Since its inception in 2021, the Foundation has served 
as the philanthropic arm of the fraternity, working tirelessly to create a lasting impact in the areas 
of scholarship, youth development, social action, and economic empowerment.

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The idea for a centralized philanthropic entity took root decades ago, as members of Phi Beta 
Sigma recognized the need to coordinate and expand their charitable initiatives in a more 
strategic and sustainable way. While individual chapters had long been active in their local 
communities, there was growing consensus that a unified national foundation could not only 
enhance the fraternity’s charitable presence but also increase its influence in the nonprofit and 
philanthropic sectors. 

Image by Jean-Philippe Delberghe
Man and Child

officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit...

In 2021, the PBS Impact Foundation was officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit 
organization under Hon. Michael E. Cristal’s administration; David Turner was tapped to be the Foundation’s inaugural chairman. Early fundraising efforts were modest but effective, often supported by the dedication of brothers who believed deeply in the Foundation’s vision, as well as grant makers in various spaces. The Foundation’s first major gifts were directed toward scholarships and college readiness programs, laying the groundwork for what would become a broad-based commitment to youth empowerment. 

...communities across the country grappled with health, economic, and educational crises.

During the global COVID-19 pandemic, communities across the country grappled with health, economic, and educational crises. Even in its infancy stage, the PBS Impact Foundation stepped forward with emergency relief support. It partnered with Good Health Wins to increase vaccination rates and remove barriers to access. The Foundation later launched the Blue Axe Contingency Fund to provide rapid assistance to individuals and families in need due to natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires. This initiative, among others, helped solidify the Foundation’s role as a responsive and responsible philanthropic leader during times of uncertainty. 

Image by Alexander Grey
Image by Jonathan Ford
Image by NASA

...widespread support from members, partners, and philanthropic allies.

In the years since, the Foundation has experienced significant growth in both its donor base and programmatic reach. Its strategic campaigns—such as the annual Day of Impact, scholarship endowment drives, and planned giving efforts—have drawn widespread support from members, partners, and philanthropic allies. The Foundation has also embraced innovation in donor engagement, leveraging social media, storytelling, and grassroots advocacy to build a culture of giving within Phi Beta Sigma and beyond. 

...a national force for equity and opportunity.

One of the hallmark achievements of the Foundation has been its ability to mobilize resources to support Black male achievement. Through programs that fund college scholarships, mentorship initiatives, and leadership development experiences, the PBS Impact Foundation has become a national force for equity and opportunity. Signature efforts such as the Gibson Family Scholarship, Rod Paige Fellowship, and youth leadership summits reflect the Foundation’s commitment to investing in the next generation of changemakers.

Young Scholar 2
Youth Conference 2
Young Scholar

...PBS Impact Foundation operates with transparency, accountability, and strategic purpose.

Governed by a dedicated board of directors and supported by a growing network of donors and volunteers, the PBS Impact Foundation operates with transparency, accountability, and strategic purpose. Its values are rooted in service, scholarship, and systemic impact—values that reflect the founding principles of Phi Beta Sigma itself. 

The story of the PBS Impact Foundation is still being written...

Today, the PBS Impact Foundation stands as a testament to the power of collective action. What began as an idea among brothers has become a thriving institution, empowering lives and transforming communities across the country. As it looks to the future, the Foundation remains committed to scaling its impact, strengthening its partnerships, and ensuring that every gift makes a difference. The story of the PBS Impact Foundation is still being written—and with the continued support of donors, chapters, and visionary leaders, its next chapter promises to be even more impactful than the last.  

Black Male Doctor
disaster relief
Black Male Researching

Donation Initiatives

EDUCATION

Covid-19 Vaccine Icon

COVID VACCINES

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DISASTER RELIEF FUND

Youth Safety Icon

YOUTH GUN VIOLENCE SAFE

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SICKLE CELL RESEARCH

"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

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2 Corinthians 9:7

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