Legacy of Impact
These initiatives reflect Heal America’s commitment to restoring dignity, building bridges, and sparking transformation — each leaving a lasting impact on the people and places they touched.
Summer of Healing
A nationwide effort launched in response to rising summer violence, this initiative invests in community-led solutions that restore human dignity, promote healing, and create pathways to lasting peace.
We’ve partnered with visionary leaders across 19 cities across the country to support innovative solutions that restore hope and strengthen communities. By providing grants and resources, we empower leaders already doing the work to bridge divides, nurture safety, and create lasting, positive change. Our goal is to elevate their models of community transformation so others can learn, replicate, and grow this impact.
Juneteenth
A celebration of progress, resilience, and shared history — bringing communities together to honor freedom, reflect on our journey, and build a more united future.
Heal America proudly honors Juneteenth as a time to celebrate resilience, progress, and the power of community. In 2023, we were honored to serve as the premier sponsor of Opal’s Walk for Freedom, a 2.5-mile walk commemorating Juneteenth. Local events like these continue to bring neighbors together to honor generations of perseverance — and yes, we also enjoyed some red velvet cake along the way!
In this video, the Rev. Dr. DeForest “Buster” Soaries, co-chair of Heal America, shares the history and significance of Juneteenth, and how each of us can contribute to a brighter, more united future.
Conversation with Dr. Opal Lee
An inspiring dialogue with the “Grandmother of Juneteenth” and changemakers continuing her legacy — showing how courage, unity, and perseverance can heal divisions and transform our future.
Watch an inspiring conversation with Dr. Opal Lee, widely recognized as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” Dr. Lee dedicated her life to creating opportunities for unity, celebration, and education, demonstrating the power of collective action to heal and uplift communities. Joined by Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries Jr., Leon Ford, and Ryan Tillman, this conversation explores her legacy and the ongoing work to bring people together in love and shared purpose.
Getty Project
A powerful collaboration preserving and celebrating the legacy of HBCUs — ensuring the stories, culture, and impact of these institutions continue to inspire generations to come.
At Heal America, we value the stories that connect our past to our future. In partnership with Getty Images, we supported the creation of the “Historically Black Colleges & Universities Collection,” preserving thousands of photographs that celebrate the cultural and educational legacy of HBCUs.
All HBCUs retain copyright of their photographs, and revenue generated from the images is reinvested in programs that advance education and opportunity: 50% to grant recipients, 30% to scholarship funds, and 20% to Getty Images Photo Archive Grants for HBCUs each year.