Limitless future based on an astounding legacy
The mission of the Lucas-Kennedy Foundation is to engage and uplift the African Diaspora by empowering a dynamic and diverse generation of motivated leaders. We are working for African and global development partnerships. The Foundation’s name honors C. Payne Lucas and Dr. Joseph Kennedy, the founders of Africare.
The Lucas-Kennedy Foundation aims to foster learning, commerce, and diplomacy. Through partnerships with African nations and those in the African Diaspora, we contribute to global peace and development.
Core programs
The Lucas-Kennedy Foundation works through three core programs to accomplish its mission.
Strategic Partners in Commerce and Entrepreneurship
In recognition of the critical role of women and the lack of support for women in entrepreneurial pursuits, the Lucas-Kennedy Foundation created the SPICE Program.
We assist African women entrepreneurs with opportunities leading to mentorships, venture capital, private equity, business advisory and technical assistance services.
Scholarships And Internships
The Lucas-Kennedy Global Development Scholarship supports young Diaspora professionals to pursue academic training and practical work experience in preparation for international careers.
In addition, the Foundation partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities in awarding four scholarships each year to students at these institutions.
African Technical and Executive Assistance
We recruit and deploy technical and executive expertise from the African Diaspora to provide short-term assistance to business, industrial, educational, and governmental development efforts on the African continent.
C. Payne Lucas and Dr. Joseph C. Kennedy
The Lucas-Kennedy Foundation was created with the aim of preserving and advancing Africare’s legacy by charting a new path that would honor our past and present leaders and mentors.
C. Payne Lucas
Dr. Joseph C. Kennedy
C. Payne Lucas and Dr. Joseph C. Kennedy were two giants in African Development. They were principal founders of the organization Africare which served millions of Africans and created a model of American-African partnership. The Lucas–Kennedy Foundation for African Development has seized the baton to ensure American-African partnership and solidarity.
