Black History Month: Shanice Branch
February is Black History Month, and this week we’re spotlighting Shanice Branch, Director of Development.
Shanice Branch came to CHiPS as the Development Director in 2021 after encountering another local food justice org, Harlem Grown, left her interested in working towards food access and against food insecurity. The fact that CHiPS has a dual mission of food and housing was what sealed the deal. “The Frances Residence is near and dear to my heart. My mom raised me as a single mom and I wish there had been more organizations around like CHiPS when I was younger.” Shanice said.
As Development Director, Shanice has grown the CHiPS budget from $550,000 in 2021 to nearly $3M this upcoming fiscal year (2026).
“The outpouring of support that we get is really what strikes me the most about CHiPS. We can put out a specific ask–a mom who needs a stroller, or some specific food item for the kitchen–and time and time again our community members show up to provide what we need, the things that we ask for,” Shanice said.
CHiPS is a community-based organization through and through. CHiPS was founded by volunteers and continues to rely heavily on volunteers and individual donors. In the Development Department, Shanice works tirelessly to keep people engaged, informed, and interested in supporting CHiPS.
“I really enjoy speaking with people one-on-one about the work that we do. People are so often excited about it and eager to support it,” Shanice said, reflecting on her favorite part of the job.
“If we are able to provide full wraparound services, I think that will be pushing the needle forward [on racial equality and equity],” Shanice mentioned, referring to the expansion of services represented by the recent addition of a Director of Case Management to CHiPS’s team.
About Black History Month, Shanice said “Black History Month is our month. It showcases our accomplishments. The things that we’ve achieved. But those things are also important all year round, not just this one month.”
At CHiPS, we’re so grateful for Shanice and all that she does that makes our day-to-day work possible.
