The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) is a nonprofit organization established in 1944 to provide financial support to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and their students. It aims to increase access to higher education for African American students through scholarships, grants, and advocacy. UNCF is known for its motto, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste," which emphasizes the importance of education. The organization has helped thousands of students achieve their academic goals and has played a significant role in promoting educational equity in the United States.