As a local giving circle, COLA Gives is focused on strategically allocating its funds and talent/time resources on under-resourced non-profits. Members of the giving circle share a common goal of maintaining and strengthening the African American community values of self-determination, self-help, and collective action. Thus, COLA Gives strives to demonstrate the continuing efficacy of these and other values that have served the Black community well throughout our history and promises to be effective tools, if applied, for creating a successful future for all. We leverage the resources available among our members, friends and donors to recognize and support the good work done by local, community-based non-profits within the community. These unsolicited "grants" of time, talent, and/or treasure are designed for those who "do the real work" of community development and improvement.