Since 1972

Who We Are

The mission of the Urban League of the Upstate will advance equity by empowering the Black community and underserved individuals throughout the region.

Education

We value education as a key component for living a healthier and more prosperous life. Our education and youth development programs provide young people with the critical skills they need to excel academically, avoid at-risk behavior and become engaged members in their communities. Tutoring, college preparation and leadership development are some of the many educational advancement tools offered.

As the leading champion of empowerment for the black community, the Urban League of the Upstate envisions a region where all people:

Are valued members of the community

Can adequately support themselves and their families

Can live in neighborhoods that are vibrant and thriving

Our Values

Integrity
People First
Lessons Learned
Civility
Results

Make a Change

Our History

The National Urban League is a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. The Urban League is the oldest and largest community-based organization of its kind in the nation.

Founded in 1910 and headquartered in New York City, the National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its local affiliates through the development of programs, public policy research, and advocacy. Today, there are nearly 100 local affiliates in 36 states and the District of Columbia, providing direct services that impact and improve the lives of more than 2 million people nationwide.

In 1970, a small group of citizens from Greenville met in the basement of Springfield Baptist Church with one goal in mind. To create a community-based organization committed to the principle of equal opportunity for all citizens in housing, education, employment, and economic development without regard to race or socioeconomic status.

From these meetings, the Greenville Urban League was established in 1972 with Theo Mitchell as its first President. In 1997, understanding the needs of the Upstate Region, the name was changed to reflect the population served to Urban League of the Upstate.

Today, under the leadership of the President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Gail Wilson Awan, the Urban League of the Upstate continues to support and advocate for economic equality for African Americans by building strong and stable communities.

Leadership