We-Collab Taps Veteran Leader to Navigate Philanthropic Sea Change

HOUSTON, TX – January 06, 2026 – As a monumental transfer of wealth begins to reshape the American philanthropic landscape, Houston-based impact strategy firm We-Collab has made a strategic move, appointing veteran community leader Errol Allen II as its new principal. The appointment positions the firm to play a pivotal role in directing a portion of the trillions of dollars expected to change hands toward more equitable, community-centered initiatives.

Allen, a co-founder of the Houston Black Leadership Institute and a respected figure with over two decades of experience connecting capital with community needs, joins We-Collab at a critical juncture. His expertise is seen as essential for the firm's mission to help mission-driven organizations capitalize on what experts are calling the 'Great Wealth Transfer,' a generational shift that will see an estimated $124 trillion in wealth move between generations by 2048.

The Trillion-Dollar Shift in Giving

The scale of the impending wealth transfer is unprecedented. Projections estimate that of the $124 trillion set to be passed down, a staggering $18 trillion could be earmarked for charitable giving. This influx of capital presents both a monumental opportunity and a significant challenge for the non-profit and philanthropic sectors. The central question is not just how to access these funds, but how to ensure they are deployed effectively to address systemic inequalities and create lasting change.

We-Collab, founded in 2015 with an "equity first" philosophy, aims to be a key architect in answering that question. The firm partners with philanthropies, government agencies, and social impact entities to design and implement strategies that drive tangible results in underserved communities.

"We-Collab is committed to amplifying the impact nonprofits and philanthropies have on the communities they serve," said Niiobli Armah IV, the firm's founder, in a statement. He emphasized that Allen's appointment is a direct reflection of this commitment. "Errol brings a deep understanding of Houston's civic infrastructure, leaders, and institutions, and knows how to move resources and capital into communities."

This strategic focus aligns with a broader shift in philanthropic trends. Younger generations of donors, who are set to inherit much of this wealth, increasingly prioritize transparency, measurable impact, and social justice. They are moving away from traditional, top-down charity models and toward more direct, participatory forms of giving that empower communities to lead their own development. Firms that can authentically bridge the gap between these new-guard philanthropists and on-the-ground initiatives are poised for significant influence.

From NASA Systems to Community Networks

Errol Allen II’s career path provides a unique blueprint for bridging these very gaps. Before becoming a pivotal figure in Houston's community development scene, he spent nearly two decades as a senior integrator at NASA. This experience navigating one of the world's most complex institutional systems honed his ability to manage large-scale projects and align diverse stakeholders toward a common goal—a skill set he has since applied to the intricate social fabric of community-level work.

His transition from federal agency to community advocacy is marked by a series of high-impact leadership roles. Alongside Armah, he co-founded the Houston Black Leadership Institute (HBLI) in 2012, an organization dedicated to fostering a strong pipeline of leadership within the city's African-American community by connecting past, present, and future leaders.

Furthermore, his influence in the professional sphere was solidified during two consecutive terms as president of the National Black MBA Association's Houston Chapter from 2015 to 2018. In that capacity, he was instrumental in expanding scholarship opportunities and mentorship programs for underrepresented students, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to creating pathways for economic and professional advancement. This history has cemented his reputation as a trusted connector between decision-makers and the communities most affected by their decisions.

A Principal with a Purpose

In the world of impact consulting, the title of 'Principal' carries significant weight. It is a senior leadership role responsible not only for driving business development but also for shaping the firm's strategic direction and ensuring the integrity of its mission. As principal, Allen will lead We-Collab's business development and strategic planning, serving as a direct nexus between philanthropic funders and community partners.

His mandate includes joining the executive team to design equity-centered solutions and spearheading the firm's expansion into corporate and public sector portfolios. This signifies a move to diversify We-Collab's influence, applying its community-centered model to a broader range of institutions that are increasingly focused on social responsibility and equity.

Allen sees the current moment as a profound chance to recalibrate how resources flow in society. "Self-determination and economic independence come from having equitable opportunities," he stated. "As wealth changes hands across generations, we have a real opportunity to shift more resources into community-centered initiatives." His role will be to transform this opportunity into actionable strategies for We-Collab's clients, ensuring that the promise of the Great Wealth Transfer translates into real progress on the ground.

Houston's Blueprint for Equitable Growth

While We-Collab operates on a national scale, Allen’s deep roots in Houston provide a powerful local anchor for the firm’s strategy. His intimate knowledge of the city’s civic landscape—from its philanthropic foundations to its grassroots organizations—offers a unique advantage in piloting and perfecting models of equitable development that can be replicated elsewhere.

The firm has already built a strong foundation, reporting over 12,000 hours of client coaching and a 91% repeat clientele rate since its inception. This track record demonstrates a proven ability to deliver value to its partners. By adding Allen’s network and cross-sector expertise, We-Collab is strengthening its capacity to not just advise but to actively facilitate the movement of capital.

In a growing and competitive social impact consulting field, this focus on deep, authentic community connection and proven leadership serves as a key differentiator. Allen’s appointment is more than a new hire; it is a clear signal of We-Collab’s intention to lead a new paradigm of philanthropy—one where wealth is not just given, but strategically invested to empower communities from within and build a more equitable future. His work will be closely watched as a potential blueprint for how to effectively and justly channel the greatest wealth transfer in history.