Bank of America has announced the six honorees of its Neighborhood Builders Social Equality Award (NBSE), which recognizes individual leaders from across the country who serve as catalysts in advancing social equality and economic opportunity.

Bank of America also announced a $24 million investment in support of nonprofit leadership and sustainability through its Neighborhood Builders and Neighborhood Champions programs. Recipients of the Racial Equity Award can direct a $200,000 grant to a nonprofit of their choice, and the selected organizations can participate in the company’s year-long Neighborhood Builders Leadership Program, which provides strategic growth and development training to establish organizations for long-term success. This year’s recipients include Frank Chi, a New York/Los Angeles-based filmmaker; Rudolf “Rudy” Gonzales, president and CEO of Servicios de La Raza; Opal Lee, founder of Unity Unlimited; Brandon “Stix” Salaam-Bailey, rapper and founder of Thinkwatts Foundation; Luz Urrutia, CEO of Accion Opportunity Fund; and Cheryl Crazy Bull Wacinyanpi Win, president and CEO of the American Indian College Fund.

“We want to recognize, celebrate, and empower the leaders and nonprofits driving progress for the diverse communities where we all live and serve,” said Bank of America Charitable Foundation president Ebony Thomas. “We are inspired by the work these individuals and organizations do to break barriers and create opportunities on behalf of others in sustainable and innovative ways.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/FG Trade)