The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) was founded in 1944 to provide financial support to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and students attending these institutions. The primary goal of UNCF is to increase educational opportunities for African American students and to support the preservation and advancement of HBCUs.

Over the years, UNCF has raised billions of dollars in scholarship funds, providing support to thousands of students to help them pursue higher education. The organization has also played a key role in advocating for racial equity and access to quality education for African Americans.

UNCF is known for its motto, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste," which has become a well-known and powerful slogan in the African American community. The organization continues to be a vital force in promoting educational opportunities for African American students and supporting the important work of HBCUs in the United States.