CHARLESTON, S.C., June 01, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Blackbaud, Inc. (NASDAQ:BLKB), the leading provider of software and services for the global philanthropic community, today announced a $1 million gift to the International African American Museum (IAAM), which will be built on Charleston’s Gadsden’s Wharf. Blackbaud will sponsor the Digital Media Lab that will take the museum experience outside of its four walls. Virtual or in-person visitors to the museum can trace their family origins, research their ancestry and record their own stories.
Nearly 40 percent of African-Americans have an ancestor who arrived in America through Charleston’s Gadsden’s Wharf during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, and it is estimated that 80 percent of African-Americans have ancestral roots through the port of Charleston. Under the leadership of President and CEO Michael B. Moore, great-great grandson of Robert Smalls, IAAM will be a new museum of African-American history that aims to re-center South Carolina’s place in global history and honor the largely overlooked history of the African-American community. The museum will connect visitors to their ancestors, demonstrating how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development in the nation and beyond.
“Blackbaud’s significant gift helps us move closer to our fundraising goal and is a testament to the support the International African American Museum project is receiving by South Carolina’s most influential, purpose-focused companies, said Michael B. Moore, President and CEO of IAAM. “We’re overwhelmed by Blackbaud’s generosity and enthusiasm; especially the employees who are already rolling up their sleeves to help by sharing best practices of the arts and culture community, helping us leverage the full power of technology to create a special experience for visitors, and offering support through volunteerism.”
Blackbaud’s investment will support the Digital Media Lab which will allow visitors to be part of a shared experience; inside the museum or from anywhere in the world on their computers or mobile devices. “This connectivity showcases how technology can help break down barriers, and proves there are no limits to the experience the IAAM can offer,” said Mike Gianoni, President and CEO of Blackbaud. “We are incredibly moved to be a part of this endeavor and it’s a privilege for our company to help to bring a sense of connection and identity for those wishing to find answers and complete their own personal stories. I invite other companies to join us in investing to bring this important museum to life.”
Former Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley, who pioneered the IAAM project and leads the fundraising campaign, commented on the leadership role Blackbaud is playing in honoring the African-American community. “Charleston and this museum reflect the struggle that still exists to rightfully mark, educate and celebrate African-American history. With IAAM, we have the opportunity to tell an American story and the pivotal role that Charleston plays in that story. As business leaders like Blackbaud continue rise to support the museum, we move steps closer to finally being able to tell our complete story, and to take new steps toward cultural appreciation and unity.”
Gianoni added “At Blackbaud, we believe all people deserve the opportunity to know their heritage, and to understand the role their families have played in shaping history and culture. This museum is making that possible for the African-American community, and we’re proud to support it.”
The IAAM will be located at Gadsden’s Wharf in Charleston. Currently at 67 percent of the $75 million goal, construction for the museum will begin as soon as all funding is secured. To learn more about the IAAM or to donate, visit www.iaamuseum.org.
About Blackbaud
Serving the worldwide philanthropic community for 35 years, Blackbaud (NASDAQ:BLKB) combines innovative software, services, and expertise to help organizations achieve their missions. Blackbaud works in over 60 countries to power the passion of approximately 35,000 customers, including nonprofits, K-12 private and higher education institutions, healthcare organizations, corporations, foundations, and other charitable giving entities. The company offers a full spectrum of cloud and on-premise solutions, as well as a resource network that empowers and connects organizations of all sizes. Blackbaud's portfolio of software and services supports nonprofit fundraising and relationship management, eMarketing, advocacy, accounting, payments and analytics, as well as grant management, corporate social responsibility, and education. Organizations use Blackbaud technology to raise, invest, manage and award more than $100 billion each year. Recognized as a top company, Blackbaud is headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina and has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit www.blackbaud.com.
About IAAM
The IAAM will be an international center of learning where individuals, families, and groups will advance their understanding and appreciation of American History, particularly the role of African-American in creating the country and world we know today. The IAAM will cover a vast cultural and religious landscape while portraying the story of slavery, war, civil rights and tragedy. It will cast these story elements into a rich collage that demonstrates the grace, leadership and opportunity for the future. The use of technology will activate the past to engage and inspire visitors and guests. The International African American Museum will also be a source of great pride, an institute of excellence and a world-class Museum, not only for Charleston and South Carolina, but also for our country. For more information, please visit www.iaaMuseum.org.
Forward-looking Statements
Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations, and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following: general economic risks; uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; management of integration of acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; risks associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks related to our dividend policy and share repurchase program, including potential limitations on our ability to grow and the possibility that we might discontinue payment of dividends; risks relating to restrictions imposed by the credit facility; risks associated with management of growth; lengthy sales and implementation cycles, particularly in larger organization; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or upon request from Blackbaud's investor relations department. All Blackbaud product names appearing herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackbaud, Inc.