MADAM C. J. WALKER
First female self-made millionaire in the U.S. | One of the first Black YMCA donors
Madam C. J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove in 1867, became the first female self-made millionaire in the U.S. through her successful hair care business for African American women. Throughout her life, Walker was a philanthropist, contributing to various African American organizations.
Notably, in 1913, she donated $1,000 to help complete the new Black YMCA in Indianapolis, the largest individual donation from an African American at the time.
Walker’s generous contributions extended to education, including fundraising for schools such as the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute, and supporting artists and civil rights causes. She believed in empowering others, particularly women, by providing job opportunities and training at her beauty college. Walker’s legacy as a businesswoman, philanthropist, and civil rights advocate continues to inspire.