Black Philanthropy Month
August is Black Philanthropy Month, a time to celebrate a legacy of giving — and this year, your support of our work can go even further. Thanks to a partnership between the Colorado Trust and the Black Resilience in Colorado (BRIC) Fund, a $50,000 matching fund is available statewide, matching gifts dollar-for-dollar up to $1,000 per donor through August 28.
The August 28th date carries deep weight in Black history:
- British Slavery Abolition Act (August 28, 1833)
- Murder of Emmett Till (August 28, 1955)
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech (August 28, 1963)
- Hurricane Katrina reaching Category 5 strength (August 28, 2005)
- Barack Obama's acceptance of the Democratic presidential nomination in Denver (August 28, 2008)
Founded in 1941, the Owl Club is one of the most historically significant African American fraternal organizations in Denver. The Owl Club is a consistent hub and touch point for numerous influential and impactful men and women and has shaped Denver society through its public and philanthropic efforts, most notably the Debutante Cotillion. As Denver's oldest cotillion, this event has been a proud tradition for seven decades. It introduces high school Black ladies to Denver's social community, celebrating their achievements and future aspirations.
About Black Philanthropy Month
Founded in 2011, Black Philanthropy Month celebrates a tradition of giving that predates formal philanthropy — from mutual aid societies to HBCU support to community-driven crisis response. It honors that legacy through mentorship, advocacy, and collective action, not just financial gifts.
About BRIC Fund
Launched on Juneteenth 2020, the Black Resilience in Colorado (BRIC) Fund is Colorado's first Black-focused community fund, established to mobilize resources and invest in Black-led and Black-serving organizations building stronger, more resilient communities. BRIC has awarded $6 million in grants to 500 nonprofits, reaching approximately 300,000 people and supporting more than 350+ nonprofit leaders of color. Learn more at bricfund.org
We're grateful to the Colorado Trust for generously providing the $50,000 matching fund this Black Philanthropy Month, and to BRIC for coordinating this opportunity across Colorado's Black-led and -serving organizations.Founded in 2005, The Owl Club of Denver, Inc. has been bringing people together for over a decade. What started as a small group of friends has grown into a vibrant community of over 500 members. We're proud of our history and excited for what the future holds!
the Owl Club Social Media Interviews
Debutante Cotillion celebrates a rich past, exciting futures-Joanne Davidson Colorado Politics
For the past several months, the Owl Club of Denver has filled its social media platforms with salutes to, and testimony from, the women who, following their presentation at the club’s annual Debutante Cotillion, have gone on to excel, achieve and set positive examples for those who follow.
In showcasing their prominence, the club members weren’t just bragging about having chosen graduating high school seniors with a clear sense of direction. They were offering proof to the 2026 debutantes that it’s perfectly OK to set lofty goals because with hard work and perseverance, dreams can indeed come true.
The Owl Club Celebrates 75 years of Debutante Presentations
Members with the 85-year old Owl Club Organization are interviewed as part of the Black History Month celebration. The Owl Club will host its 75th Diamond Anniversary Cotillion Presentation in June 2026.
https://share.google/DbaItWxg3yxzY98cZ
Matt Hinderman with Elevating Denver
Elevating Denver: Owl Club
For over 80 years, The Owl Club of Denver has been empowering African American youth to soar high by providing invaluable support and opportunities through brotherhood and community service.
The club also works to elevate and highlight young women in the community through their annual Debutante Cotillion, their signature event of the year.
Their legacy is immense, and count many
local and national leaders amongst their membership.
Join us to hear about their significant impact they've made on Denver over the years. Don't miss it! The Owl Club Members latest social media appearance is with Matt Hinderman, Multiplatform Producer for the City and County of Denver.
https://youtu.be/wevazLDX2Bc
Janelle Finch & Anne Herbst with 9News
9News Recognizes The Owl Club of Denver Legacy of Service.
Please click on the link below to watch the first of several Owl Club members' interviews by 9News Janelle Finch and Anne Herbst as we celebrate 83 years of community service.
Jessica Porter with Denver 7 News
Jessica Porter with Denver 7 News
In the spotlight this Black History month: The Owl Club of Denver.
Please click on the link below to watch Jessica Porter's interview with Owl Club member Mr. Ronald Washington and Terri Gentry, History Colorado's Engagement Manager for Black Communities.
The President's Message
Mr. Alonzo Butler
I am very pleased to represent the members of the Owl Club of Denver. This is an outstanding social club that has provided brotherhood, fellowship and community service for over 70 years.
One of the Owl Club's most notable programs is the Debutante Ball, which is a stellar event where we honor intelligent young women in a public forum for their character, scholarship, leadership and community service .
The Owl Club of Denver is made up of members who are local leaders in the Denver area. This high profile membership and long history of community service has made the Owl Club highly regarded as one of the premier organizations in the state of Colorado.
Mr. Penfield W. Tate III
Chair of History Colorado's Board of Directors
Mr. Penfield W. Tate III, has broken new ground as the first person of color to serve as History Colorado's Chair of the Board of Directors in the 144-year history of the organization. Mr. Tate has served on History Colorado's Board of Directors since 2020. Mr. Tate brings experience in public finance and municipal law from his time working in government and as an advisor to government fostering wide-ranging expertise in representing public entities, lenders, and underwriters engaged in the process of financing essential public improvements and advising local and state governments in the exercise of their administrative responsibilities.
Mr. Penfield W. Tate III joined the Owl Club of Denver Social Club in 1994 and is currently a member of the Board of Directors and Chair of the Membership Committee. As a government official, Mr. Tate III was elected to both the Colorado Senate and House of Representatives. He has also served as executive director of the Department of Administration for former Gov. Roy Romer, as well as on both the State of Colorado Banking Board and the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Board.
Please click on picture for link to
History Colorado's Press Release
The Owl Club of Denver, Inc.
Our Values
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
At The Owl Club of Denver, Inc., we are committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and respect. Our events and activities are designed to create a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of background or identity.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
Want to give back to the community and make a difference? Join our team of volunteers! We're always looking for passionate African American men to help us plan and execute events.
Owl Club Members
Volunteer Opportunities
Owl Club Members
The Owl Club of Denver is made up of members who are local leaders in the Denver area. This high profile membership and long history of community service has made the Owl Club highly regarded as one of the premier organizations in the state of Colorado.