Columbia Urban League, Inc.

The mission of the Urban League movement is to enable underserved communities to secure self-reliance, primarily in education, employment, and economic development. The Urban League is the nation's oldest and largest community-based movement devoted to empowering African Americans and others to enter the economic and societal mainstream.

The funds raised through Midlands Gives will help sustain our community efforts, empowering those in need to become more self-reliant and achieve social and economic stability.

More specifically, we will allocate the funds to: 
- Work toward closing the achievement gap. 
- Equip participating youth with essential life skills for long-term success. 
- Implement programs aimed at reducing dropout rates. 
- Collaborate with businesses and corporations to provide work experience for our participants. 
- Continue delivering vital resources to underserved communities.

Testimonials

“When I first heard about the Columbia Urban League and the Project Ready program, I wasn't sure what to expect. I was shy and unsure of myself in new environments, but from day one, I felt welcomed. 

Seeing familiar faces from my school made me comfortable, and mentors like Ms. Dean made all the difference. Project Ready exposed me to careers I hadn't considered and taught me key skills like communication, conflict management, and career readiness. 

A highlight was working as a junior counselor, which strengthened my leadership skills. Now a graduate from SC State University I have to thank the Columbia Urban League for all the exposure they provided me over the years.”

~Breanna Calhoun (Project Ready)

“As an aspiring physician and pre-med student, this opportunity allowed me to be immersed in a clinical environment while learning medical procedures related to radiology, terminology, along with witnessing the value of patient-centered care, firsthand. 

I am grateful that the Columbia Urban League is bridging the gap for students, like myself, who are eager to gain work experience crucial for future career fields that may not be tangible outside of this organization.”

~Ebony Christie (College Internship Program)

“The Urban League has impacted me by giving my son the opportunity for a job placement for the summer and helping him to find more jobs to further his work ethics in the future.”

~Thomasina James (Parent of summer jobs participant)