2024 Celebration of Philanthropy Program Book - Book - Page 33
The Harris Family Foundation Inc. formerly known as The Jet Set
Social Club Inc., is a family-based organization established in 1976 by
the children of Benjamin and Suzanne Harris. Initially established
to support local churches, little league organized sports, and other
clubs and organizations that were championing the community, the
Foundation now funds scholarships to area youth for college or skillsbased education. The organization receives contributions from private
donors and also holds various fundraisers throughout the year to raise
funds for the scholarships. In fact, the Foundation was known for
hosting one of the largest Crab Feasts and Bull Roasts in Anne Arundel
County from 1976-2018 to raise funds to support their scholarship fund.
In addition to scholarships awarded, the Foundation supports a number
of other local and national organizations including but not limited to
American Cancer Society, Brooklyn Park Hope Festival, Bates Legacy
Center, United Negro College Fund, and the Annapolis Juneteenth
Gala, Festival and Parade. They are NAACP Organization Life Members
and have sponsored both the Keep It Movin' Health Walk and Heart
Disease Awareness Event for eight years.
The Harris Family Foundation was also recognized by the Anne
Arundel County Branch of the NAACP and at the Dr. Martin Luther
King Jr. Dinner when it received the Coretta Scott King Award in 2024
for their outstanding commitment to the community.
“The Coretta Scott King Award is designed to highlight the importance
of community organizations working to fulfill their commitment
to make their community a better place to live,” said Carl Snowden,
Chairman of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee. “The Harris
Family Foundation has been fulling that commitment since its
inception in 1976.”
Philanthropists of the Year — This award is presented to an individual or family
with a proven record of exceptional generosity who, through significant direct financial
support, has demonstrated outstanding civic and philanthropic responsibility, exemplary
leadership in advancing philanthropy, and whose generosity encourages others to
become philanthropic leaders, particularly in Anne Arundel County. This award is based
on the individual's or family's direct gift support, the impact of that support, success
in encouraging/motivating others to become philanthropic leaders and support of
innovative approaches.
2024 CELEBRATION OF PHILANTHROPY AWARDS | 33
