Archie and Phebe Mae Givens Foundation
"The Archie and Phebe Mae Givens Foundation: Transforming Lives Through Education and Literature"
Founded in 1972 by Archie and Phebe Mae Givens, the Archie and Phebe Mae Givens Foundation emerged from a deep belief in the transformative power of education to positively shape the trajectory of African American communities. Initially dedicated to providing scholarships for African American male students, the foundation’s vision expanded in 1985 when, inspired by Dr. John Wright, it seized the opportunity to acquire an extensive collection of African American literature from New York collector Richard Hoffman. This pivotal moment marked the foundation’s evolution towards a broader mission: celebrating African American voices, enriching culture, and empowering minds through literature.
The acquisition of this collection was made possible through a remarkable fundraising effort led by Ezell Jones, who along with the Givens family and an 11-member patrons council, made this vision a reality. This collective endeavor brought together leaders in the African American community, ensuring that the Givens Collection of African American Literature and Life would find its home at the University of Minnesota.
Today, the Givens Foundation Is the oldest Black family foundation in the country devoted exclusively to African American Literature, now proudly in its 53rd year. Its mission remains rooted in enriching and educating communities through the promotion of African American literature and heritage. Each year, the foundation impacts nearly 5,000 students, educators, readers, and writers through initiatives such as the Culture Matters K-12 Residencies Program, literary workshops, public book discussions, and partnerships with institutions like the University of Minnesota’s MLK program. These programs foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of African American authors, affirming the intrinsic value of their contributions to education.
Central to this mission is the Givens Collection of African American Literature and Life, which stands as a significant archival repository with over 10,000 works spanning 250 years of Black literary history and culture. This collection, which includes first editions like Phyllis Wheatley’s poetry, slave narratives, as well as the Penumbra Theatre archives, serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity of African American voices. The collection will celebrate its 40th anniversary on June 3, 2025 with a literary conference sponsored by the Givens Foundation in partnership with the Givens Collection. further solidifying its role as a beacon of knowledge and inspiration.
The late Archie Givens jr., whose leadership and vision inspired so much of this journey, he cared deeply about impacting the lives of young people. His legacy continues to guide the foundation’s efforts, and in his honor, the inaugural Archie Givens Jr. Legacy Award for Literary Excellence will be launched as an annual recognition celebrating outstanding works by Black writers.
The Givens Foundation’s story is one of ancestral resilience, built on the support of corporations, foundations, and countless individuals who recognize the value and impact of African American literature. As we continue to educate, inspire, and enrich communities through our programs, including the Black Market Reads podcast and various K-12 initiatives, we remain committed to promoting and preserving African American voices. Our journey exemplifies the power of literature in shaping minds, nurturing critical thinking, and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. For more information, please visit https://givens.org/.
Return to the NPD Event Page