
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.
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.
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.

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!
For 75 years, the longest-running Black cotillion in Colorado has celebrated young Black women in Denver for their academic achievements and community contributions.
The Owl Club of Denver recently welcomed its newest class of debutantes — 13 high school seniors from across the metro area — at its annual cotillion ball. The cotillion is the culmination of months of preparation, including college preparatory workshops, etiquette lessons, dance rehearsals, and dress shopping.
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.

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

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

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.

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.
In 1951, the first Owl Club debutante Ball was held at the Park Hill Country Club. It was the first such cotillion in the City and County of Denver. From 1951 through the current year, The Owl Club of Denver has been pleased to present over 1,000 of Denver's finest African American young ladies as Owl Debutantes.
Education has always been a high priority for the Owl Club membership. Recognizing the financial needs of many talented Owl Club Debutantes, William Kirk established the first Owl Club Scholarship Fund. Today, the Owl Club of Denver Scholarship Foundation annually awards scholarships to Debutantes who best meet the academic and financial requirements set up by the Foundation.
The Debutantes are selected on the basis of academic achievement, morals, character, leadership and outstanding community achievements. The young ladies are not presented on the basis of their parents' social status or economic background, but rather, are required to qualify on their own merits.
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.

The Owl Club of Denver, Colorado was founded in 1941. Annually, the Club recognizes outstanding African-American young ladies with the Debutante Cotillion.
Please click the following link to view the 2020 virtual 69th Annual Debutante Cotilion celebration. https://discovered.tv/watch/ZajmBGt3
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