The Social-Emotional Learning Hub For Black People
2025 FUNDRAISING VISION
We are redefining what Social-Emotional Learning looks like for Black students by centering their cultural identity, lived experiences, and leadership.
Powered by the Dangers Of The Mind Education Fund, we’ve built a national movement grounded in research, youth-led advocacy, and transformative programming — from our Black SEL Advocate Fellowship, BlackSEL Summer Institute, and national Black SEL Summit.
Longtime support from funders like United Way of the Research Triangle, Cypress, and CREED — whose investments over the last 2.5 years helped unlock partnerships with sponsors like RBC Bank — and research grants from CASEL and John Rex Endowment have been critical to our growth. We also collaborate annually with 20+ partners for our Summit and 15+ for our Summer Institute, demonstrating strong cross-sector buy-in for this work.
This year, we’re aiming to raise $1 million to expand our programming in the RTP area, strengthen our national framework, and build long-term sustainability. Some new programs we are looking to get funded include The BlackSEL Hub, a creative research and evaluation space for groundbreaking intergenerational sustainability.
In a challenging funding climate, we’re seeking visionary partners who understand that culturally responsive SEL is a cornerstone of education justice and are ready to invest in a proven model with national impact.
What is Black SEL?
Black SEL is a customized approach to social and emotional learning (SEL) that serves as a primary vehicle for cultural transmission, specifically tailored to the experiences, needs, and cultural contexts of Black students and communities.
Why Black SEL Matters?
Culturally relevant, research-based SEL resources are crucial, especially for Black youth. Black SEL was created to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline by providing essential skills and resources to school communities.
Real impact,
one stat at a time.
Resource Hub
Download Resources
Access SEL downloadable resources intended to equip educators, parents, and communities with Social-Emotional Learning tools.
Listen to Our Podcast
The Dangers of the Mind Podcast, powered by Black SEL- offers information to better reach black and brown communities.
Watch Our Videos
We carefully curate panels, breakout sessions and discussions around the importance of Black SEL.
Read the Latest News
Whether you're familiar with SEL, or just getting started on your journey- stay up-to-date on the latest SEL research and news through our blog.
The Black SEL Hub Summer Institute is an initiative crafted to delve into the lived experiences of Black students concerning social-emotional development. Over five days, this institute will explore our Black SEL curriculum, providing students with training in social justice skills, racial equity, African-American leadership, workforce development, character development, understanding the political landscape, and exploring a child’s media diet, all while integrating the five competencies of SEL.
Get Involved!
Support Black SEL today, and join us in making a difference! It's more than a donation—it's an investment in the future of our community.
Join us in creating transformative opportunities for Black communities! Your donation supports programs that empower individuals, build self-concept, and drive community-centered change.Your generosity allows us to provide Black youth and communities with SEL resources that shape the future. We are truly grateful for your contributions and your commitment to our mission.
Meet Our
Student Advocates
An Advocate is a Black SEL Ambassador who has completed the Black SEL Advocate Fellowship and actively leads by supporting peers, championing social justice, and fostering community well-being. Student Advocates take their commitment further by engaging in Advocate programs, where they amplify their impact through Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), Civic Engagement, and the Black SEL Club—a high school club led by Black SEL Advocates.
Subscribe to the Student Advocate Newsletter
Want to become a Black SEL Student Advocate? Subscribe to our Program newsletter to stay updated on the next application cycle for the Advocate Fellowship Cohort!
Internship Opportunity
Now Accepting Applications
Are you a student or emerging leader driven by purpose and eager to make a meaningful difference? Black SEL, an initiative of the Dangers of the Mind Education Fund, invites passionate changemakers to apply for our dynamic internship program. If you’re committed to education, community empowerment, and advancing equity for Black communities, this is your chance to get involved in impactful work that matters.
More About
The Black SEL Internship
1
Who we are looking for
Are you passionate about social impact, education, and empowering Black communities? Black SEL, powered by the Dangers of the Mind Education Fund, is looking for dynamic and dedicated interns to join our team!
2
What are your interests?
We’re seeking students and emerging leaders with interests in:
- Political Science & Civic Engagement
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Marketing & Communications
- Public Relations, Education, and more!
3
The opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in community building, social-emotional learning, event planning, and advocacy work that centers Black voices and excellence.
To apply, email your resume and cover letter to: info@blacksel.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Join a movement that’s changing the way we build within our communities.
