Madison is home to a vibrant network of organizations dedicated to amplifying Black voices and fostering opportunities for all residents. These groups promote education, economic empowerment, health equity and cultural celebration. Whether through mentorship, business development or advocacy, these organizations are shaping a stronger future for Madison—one that uplifts and supports every community member.
100 Black Men of Madison Inc.
An affiliate of 100 Black Men of America Inc., this nonprofit organization aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of area youth, particularly Black men. Through programs based in education, mentoring, health, wellness and economic development, 100 Black Men of Madison works to expand opportunities and improve the quality of life for everyone in the Madison community.
African American Opioid Coalition
Composed of several Black community leaders, the African American Opioid Coalition’s mission is to improve the overall health of Black families in Dane County and mitigate drug harm. The coalition partners with other community organizations to host one-on-one recovery coaching, drug take-back drives and safety webinars.
African Association of Madison
Founded in 1993, the African Association of Madison organizes AfricaFest and other community events to bring together Madisonians of African descent and share their diverse cultures. The association highlights education and cultural exchange that “presents an objective view of Africa” and improves community relations.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County
Adult mentors across Dane County are paired with children and teens; this mentorship program helps youth across Madison — particularly those without many adult role models in their lives — avoid risky behaviors, focus on academics and reach their potential.
Black Men Coalition
Black Men Coalition is a solutions-based non-profit that provides coaching, transportation services and more to elevate Madison’s most vulnerable. The non-profit hosts financial literacy seminars, career counseling and a start-up accelerator for budding entrepreneurs.
Boys & Girls Club of Dane County
This community chapter aims to lead the way in youth development. Through local partnerships, the Boys & Girls Club empowers all young people in Dane County, particularly those in need.
The Center for Black Excellence and Culture
Founded by Reverend Dr. Alex Gee, Jr., The Center for Black Excellence and Culture is an ongoing project. When complete, the fully Black-inspired, designed and run building will operate as a community resource for cultural connection, professional advancement and more.
Freedom Inc.
Through direct services, community organization and leadership development, Freedom Inc. aims to make shifts in social, political, economic and cultural climates. The non-profit engages with low- and no-income communities to end violence against children, women, gender-non-conforming and transgender individuals within communities of color.
The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness
This non-profit organization is committed to eliminating health disparities and a multitude of other barriers that impact Black women and girls.
JustDane
JustDane works with individuals experiencing barriers to employment. Among their many services are prison reentry programs, childcare for children with incarcerated parents and community events that promote empathy for all community members.
Madison Black Chamber of Commerce
The goal of the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce is to build up Black-owned businesses in the greater Madison area.
Maydm
Maydm works to help girls and youth of color learn STEM skills through skill-based training in hopes of encouraging students from underrepresented populations to engage in tech industries.
Mentoring Positives Inc.
Mentoring Positives started as a referral-based program offering individual mentoring; now, the non-profit offers group mentoring sessions. The organization provides programming in social entrepreneurship, sports and the arts.
Nehemiah Center for Urban Leadership and Development
This organization emphasizes the empowerment of Black families — with a focus on Black men. Through youth leadership, arts and culture programming, economic empowerment, and justice and reconciliation, the Nehemiah Center for Urban Leadership and Development works to transform the face of leadership in Madison.
NAACP Dane County Branch
Dane County’s local NAACP branch aims to “eliminate race-based discrimination” by empowering all community members in the political, economic, social and educational sectors. Members meet once a month, and the organization hosts regular youth programming and an annual freedom fundraiser dinner.
Progress Center for Black Women
Centered around Black women and their families, The Progress Center for Black Women provides resources, space and events to foster new connections and personal transformation. The Progress Center’s vision is to “create more powerful communities of Black women who are leaders, doers and owners.”
Racial Justice & Social Equity Initiative
The City of Madison runs the Racial Justice & Social Equity Initiative; this program centers the voices of those who are most directly impacted by local policy as it works to secure living wages, healthy environments, high-class education and safe neighborhoods for all Madisonians.
Rebalanced-Life Wellness Association
Rebalanced-Life Wellness Association is trying to reduce health disparities and restore trust in medicine. The center aims to improve social and health conditions for Black men in Dane County. Rebalanced-Life’s work is currently featured in the “Health is a Human Right” exhibit at the CDC Museum in Atlanta.
Urban League of Greater Madison
The mission of the Urban League of Greater Madison is to educate, employ and empower Black folks and other community members in an effort to live well, advance professionally and contribute to the community. Urban League is the force behind the Black Business Hub on 2222 S. Park St., which has supported Black entrepreneurs since its 2022 opening.
Urban Triage
Urban Triage’s mission focuses on empowering Black families and engaging community systems and resources to eliminate barriers in education, health, accessibility and class.
YWCA Madison
The Young Women’s Christian Association, better known as YWCA, focuses on eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The local branch hosts race and gender equity initiatives and offers job training, transportation, housing and shelter to Madison women.
Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation
Resources for business building – finances, education, one-on-one assistance – are available through Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp. WWBIC prioritizes service to those who are likely to face barriers in entrepreneurship, like women, minorities and people of lower health, but help is available to anyone.
Wisconsin Women’s Network
The Wisconsin Women’s Network fights for all aspects of women’s lives, racial justice included. The Network examines race inequities and disparities to advance race equity, eliminate racism and preserve the rights of those who have historically been denied their rights based on race.
Is there an organization we should add to this list? Let us know at editorial@madisonmagazine.com.
This list was originally compiled by former contributer Hannah Twietmeyer and was updated in 2025 by editorial intern Gabby Shell.
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