Charlotte Brown, founder of We Are Moss Point, Inc., learned early that generosity isn’t only about what you give. It’s also about how you make people feel.
Her first example was her mother, who taught Charlotte both the discipline of giving and the importance of opening your heart – and sometimes your home – to others.
“To me, philanthropy means using what I have – my time, talents, resources, and heart – to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It is about giving with purpose, strengthening my community, and creating opportunities that leave people and places better than I found them.”
Those values were instilled in Charlotte from childhood.
“My mother was the first person who taught me the importance of giving and serving others. As a child, whenever she gave me my allowance, she taught me to set aside 10% to tithe to our church, instilling in me early that giving was priority. She also opened our home during the holidays to Navy servicemen who were unable to travel home, preparing meals and making sure they had a place where they felt welcomed. A home away from home. Watching her generosity taught me that giving is not only about money – it is about sharing your time, opening your heart, and using what you have to make someone else’s life a little better.”
Years later, Charlotte experienced firsthand just how much service can mean to someone facing an unimaginable loss.
“One of the most meaningful experiences that reminded me why giving and service matter came in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when so many families had lost their homes and nearly everything they owned. I had the privilege of assisting with a Habitat for Humanity rebuilding effort alongside the late President Jimmy Carter, helping families begin the difficult process of rebuilding their lives. Seeing the joy and hope in the eyes of parents as they stepped into their new homes – and especially seeing the children’s excitement about having bedrooms of their own – was a moment I will never forget. It reminded me that giving back is more than an act of service; it is an opportunity to restore hope, dignity, and a sense of home when people need it most.”
Today, Charlotte continues that spirit of service through We Are Moss Point, Inc.
Its signature Living Legends Ball, now in its 13th year, recognizes living legends, business owners, and community leaders who have generously given their time, talents, resources, and financial support to their communities. Charlotte describes it simply as giving people their flowers while they can receive them – honoring their service while inspiring another generation to follow their example.
And that next generation is very much on Charlotte’s mind.
“I hope my philanthropy and community involvement inspire future generations to understand that making a difference does not require wealth or extraordinary resources. I want them to recognize the value in whatever they have – their time, talents, skills, passions, or simply a willingness to serve – and use it. If my example encourages even one person to believe they have something meaningful to contribute and inspires them to leave their community better than they found it, then I believe my service has created a legacy worth continuing.”
From the lessons learned in her childhood home to helping rebuild homes after Hurricane Katrina, Charlotte’s story shows how generosity can be passed from one person to another – and from one generation to the next.
This story is part of Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s celebration of Black Philanthropy Month. Throughout August, we’re highlighting Black donors, fundholders, and community members whose generosity, leadership, and service are helping strengthen South Mississippi.
