Southern Trends Report

Philanthropy in the Southeast Region

Main menu

Skip to primary content
Skip to secondary content
  • Region
  • States
    • Alabama
    • Arkansas
    • Florida
    • Georgia
    • Kentucky
    • Louisiana
    • Mississippi
    • North Carolina
    • South Carolina
    • Tennessee
    • Virginia
  • Key Findings
  • Timeline
  • About

A History of Philanthropy in the South

As SECF celebrates its 50 year anniversary, this timeline highlights milestones in our work while also lifting up the rich historical, political, and social context that defines so much of what makes the South unique.

Select a time period to view events from that time, ordered from earliest to latest. Read more to dive into the details of each event.

Download the PDF

View References

Select Time Period:

Choose a filter:

Select
  • 1491-1860

    Thriving indigineous communities are threatened with the arrival of European settlers. By 1619, enslaved Africans are brought to the Southern colonies, leaving a dark legacy that manifests for generations to come.

  • 1861-1968

    Though the Civil War brings an end to slavery, Jim Crow laws and other forms of racial discrimination continue to persist in the South. The Civil Rights Movement brings hard-fought legal and legislative victories for African Americans.

  • 1969-1990

    SECF's founding coincides with a period of social, economic, and political transition for the region.

  • 1991-2007

    SECF expands its offerings for community, family, and health foundations.

  • 2008-present

    SECF experiences rapid growth in membership and begins focusing more squarely on equity and inclusion against the backdrop of an increasingly diverse South.

Previous: 1969-1990

Next: 2008-present

1991-2007

Viewing Historical Background Events OnlyClear

  • 2005

    Hurricane Katrina devastates coastal communities in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, resulting in more than 1,800 deaths and $81 billion in damages, prompting a significant philanthropic response.

    Hurricane Katrina rescue efforts. Source: Tidewater Muse, Flickr
    Historical Background

Continue to: 2008-present

  • Candid
  • Philanthropy Southeast

© 2022 Candid. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy