Greater Washington
Urban League
78 YEARS AS THE HEARTBEAT OF THE COMMUNITY
2015 IMPACT REPORT
IMPACT STATEMENT
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”
“
Muhammad Ali
For the past 78 years, the Greater Washington Urban League has stood on society’s frontlines, as well as in the trenches serving as a safety
net and facilitator for District of Columbia-area residents, whether in advocacy, housing, employment, emergency assistance, entrepreneurship or
education. We’re the community’s first responders, the safe port in a storm, putting families first, catering to the needs of children and the elderly,
8 to 80.
We are unique. No organization in this region reaches as deeply or has as wide a footprint as we do across a range of local and regional
issues and landscapes.
We have not and could not do this alone. Our success is directly tied to the generous and unerring support of our donors, corporate,
governmental and other partners, volunteers, staff and members. With their assistance and input, the Greater Washington Urban League is able to
continue its vital mission and assumed responsibility of ensuring that vulnerable families are strengthened and their foundations secure.
Our organization remains a powerful voice issuing a clarion call for fairness, equality and justice in a community and society where all of
us must remain vigilant against the erosion of our civil and human rights. We provide a pathway to the American Dream through homeownership,
independence and self-sufficiency. Our job is to facilitate people’s journey along a continuum of wealth and wellness using the tools of education,
financial assistance, counseling, advocacy and a rich palette of other programs.
We offer educational opportunities to young and old by meeting them where they are, helping close academic and achievement gaps while
exposing them to new vistas and challenges and guiding them as they plot a path to success.
And we are committed to being and making a difference at a time when individuals and families are buffeted by the fierce winds of
recession, a rapidly changing job landscape and economic forces that have challenged families in ways that we haven’t seen in a generation, eating
away at people’s ability to live a secure life with a decent salary, shelter and food.
We are proud to still be standing strong and we are in awe of the thousands of lives and families we have touched.
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1938 - The League had just incorporated and moved into its first office at the 12th Street branch of
the YMCA. Its founding board, chaired by Dr. Garnet C. Wilkinson, included Elwood Street, Howard
Long, Alice Strong, John Corson, Campbell Johnson, William Lee, Belford Lawson, Anson Stokes,
Newbold Noyes, John Pinkett, Thomas Parran, Velma Williams and Muriel Alexander.
PRESIDENT’S STATEMENT
Since its inception, the Greater Washington Urban League has stood as a bulwark against inequality, racial
preferences and expressions of prejudice, favoritism or partiality.
In response to efforts by some to maintain a social, political and economic hierarchy, the original officers of
the Urban League envisioned and worked tirelessly for a just and more equitable society. Whether in 1938 or in the
present, our organization has carved a distinctive path towards justice and fair play, often against daunting odds.
Over the past 78 years, these and other values – among them, collaboration, the strength of ideas, dialogue
and a willingness to work hard – have governed our thoughts and actions. We are mission-driven and continue to
build on the strong foundation of values, resilience and strengths that have brought us this far. Now is an opportune
time to reflect on the League’s considerable legacy as we plot a way forward.
We’re retooling, looking internally at what works, studying and implementing best
practices, consulting with the best and the brightest, creating new partnerships,
strengthening existing ones and expanding program opportunities.
Like the generations before us, we as a civil rights and social justice organization, seek solutions and viable options to a sizable menu of
challenges. People are hurting because of precipitous economic conditions of shifts in the economy and job market and uncertainty on a number of fronts.
Americans are grappling with gender inequities, racial tensions and political gridlock.
Tough issues, indeed, but not unsolvable.
In the midst of these challenges, we’re the safety net for vulnerable individuals and families who lack the money and resources to pay rent or cover
the cost of utilities; we’re counselors and guides for those seeking to buy a home, for young people in need of educational support and those craving the
benefit of accumulated wisdom and direction.
Any success we enjoy would be impossible without the support and backing of the community, corporate leaders, donors, board members and
staff. We are the beneficiaries of their broad and deep support and philanthropy. For that we are truly grateful. It has been my honor to be given the
opportunity to lead this fine organization. I’m fortunate to be working with such dedicated and talented men and women in the District of Columbia, the
Washington Metropolitan region and beyond.
I look forward to continue working closely with friends, supporters and stakeholders to build on the strong foundation we’ve inherited. We have
been handed a proud legacy that we will build on and proudly pass on to the next generation.
GEORGE H. LAMBERT, JR.
PRESIDENT & CEO OF GREATER WASHINGTON URBAN LEAGUE
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
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2015 IN REVIEW
In 2015, the Greater Washington Urban League (The League) continued to build on its legacy of over 78 years supporting the citizens
and communities of the District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County.
The League serves the full spectrum of homeownership. In 2015, the League served 935 individuals through first-time home-buyer
seminars and trainings. Of these, 578 were supported by the Home Purchase Assistance Program, and 214 of those (more than a third) went
on to purchase homes. Through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, the League aided 218 families facing crisis and potential eviction,
providing a supportive buffer in dire times. Hundreds more received Tenant Based Rental Assistance, Short Term Rental Mortgage and Utility
Assistance, and foreclosure counseling.
With Pepco donations, the League was able to pay $72,000 in gas bills for 174 families (369 individuals). With contributions from DC
Water the League reduced past due amounts by $116,641 for 351 families (1,010 individuals). All of these families would have been without
critical, essential utilities without the support of the League and its partners.
Of course, settling into or maintaining a residence is only one part of a full and vibrant
life. The League helps people thrive professionally too. Adults seeking the challenges and
rewards of owning their own businesses can participate in the Entrepreneurship Center
Program to receive training, resources and a direct connection to capital through a network
of partner banks. In its pilot year, the ECP served 117 unique clients with 160 one-on-one
counseling sessions and 35 distinct group training sessions and events.
Through our workforce development and employment programs, we assist individuals
expanding their career options and / or gain meaningful employment. For example, to benefit
the Silver Line Metro project, we recruited over 250 potential candidates and referred 171.
In all these programs, the League invests in tomorrow by helping communities thrive
today, and the surest investments are in our children. Through a myriad of dynamic programs
with partner organizations, the League provides opportunities and hope for youth. The
League’s partnership with the Comcast Cares program provided an array of educational
and experiential learning opportunities for 41 students, and a partnership with State Farm
allowed 25 students and their families to learn about STEM programs and other educational
opportunities. Nine students received the League scholarships and summer internships,
totaling over $29,500, and all recipients were given Southwest Airlines travel vouchers to
assist with their travel. Our partnership with the Washington Nationals resulted in 22 youth participating in a Nationals Baseball Clinic, and the
combined efforts of the 2015 toy drive resulted in more than 1,500 toys, games, and books collected and distributed to families and children
in need. Finally, two deserving youth (and one chaperone) were able to attend the National Urban League Youth Summit for education and
leadership experiences with 500 other youth from around the country.
We are proud of these numbers and prouder for the quality of life that has been improved from this work. From toy drives to
scholarships, and housing support that spans the full spectrum of first time home-buying assistance to emergency rental assistance (and the
utilities in between), our programs reach thousands of individuals working to turn houses into homes and bringing lives and communities to life.
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CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT
At the Greater Washington Urban League, we are committed to challenging existing paradigms around
issues such as affordable housing, economic parity, homelessness and education. We are unwilling to believe
that tough, stubborn problems are impossible to be mitigated, changed or eliminated.
In all of our efforts, we invest in tomorrow by empowering our communities to thrive today. Through a
myriad of dynamic programs with partner organizations, the League provides opportunities and hope with and
for the communities we serve.
All around us are challenges and opportunities that require our attention. At the end of the day, it’s
about people, our neighbors, our children, and the responsibility we have to ensure that we offer a hand up to.
Through our work with more than 65,000 clients, we’re building on our commitment to help create and
maintain a more inclusive community where the most vulnerable living among us aren’t ignored, marginalized or
silenced.
We also understand the importance of providing our children and young people with the educational
undergirding they need to compete in the 21st century. That’s why we’re mentoring young people, offering them guidance in safe spaces and
exposing them to STEM and tech workshops, seminars and related activities, as well as preparing young people for college and providing qualified
students with scholarships if they decide to pursue higher education.
We also stand as a beacon for to those seeking to buy and live in their own home; a sounding board and guide for those dealing with
foreclosure; and a strong advocate for affordable housing in neighborhoods across the Washington metropolitan area. Our programs reach thousands
of individuals working to turn houses into homes and bringing lives and communities to life.
The League’s impact is clear. It is reflected in the hundreds of school children who received book bags and school supplies at the beginning
of the school year; it is the more than 800 calls a month staff receives seeking money to pay off rent up to five months in arrears; it is disabled
residents who receive rental assistance, it is the thousands of families who own their own homes thanks to the League support; it’s the job created
and the economic empowerment of the entrpreneurs we have coached and more widely, employment training, work with returning citizens, parental
education programs, health and fitness sessions, health screenings, and much, much more.
While we report on our impressive impact numbers, we must always remember that there are real
people behind the facts and figures. We have served with the residents of this community for
decades, and we are committed to doing so for decades to come.
MICHAEL AKIN
CHAIRMAN - BOARD OF DIRECTORS, GREATER WASHINGTON URBAN LEAGUE
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
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“I chose to serve on the Greater Washington
Urban League’s board, because I’m passionate
about helping all of those in our communities
share equally in the responsibilities and
rewards of full citizenship – it’s my personal
responsibility and it’s the responsibility of
Leidos. The League focuses on making a real and
lasting impact by helping minorities increase
their economic and political well-being. All of
us are called upon to do our part and we can
achieve that shared vision together.”
“
Roger Krone
Chief Executive Officer, Leidos, Inc.
Board Member
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HOUSING
The District of Columbia of 2016 is a very different city from the one of 10 or
20 years ago. The country continues to slowly climb out of a punishing and lingering
recession that has dragged on for more than seven years and taken with it the fortunes
of the middle class. The recession, coupled with the housing crash, has left certain
individuals and families devastated even as some parts of society – such as Wall Street
and big business – have rebounded.
What is playing out in our city and surrounding jurisdictions is a scenario of brisk
and widespread change. In DC, the shift is best illustrated by the influx of more than 1,100
new residents a month at the height of the population boom and the displacement of more
than 20 percent of this city’s longtime, primarily minority population. The complexion of
neighborhoods has shifted, as long-time and middle-class residents, and others with more
modest means, struggle to pay soaring rents. The cost of living continues to spiral upward and
affordable housing, for the most part, is seemingly non-existant.
Experts say that it’s a severe problem with almost 25 percent of residents in the region
paying up to 50 percent of their incomes on rent. Meanwhile, the fair-market price for rent in
this region has increased by 70 percent over the past 10 years. And the city continues to lose
affordable housing units. As units are lost, rents have increased and wages and salaries have
not kept pace.
20%
Recent changes in DC have created
the displacement of more than 20
percent of this city’s longtime, primarily
minority population.
What this illustrates is that our suite of housing programs
including the Home Purchase Assistance Program is needed
more now than ever and remains critical to our mission of
economic empowerment.
1940 - The League was founded without government funding,
so it launched a campaign and raised $10,000. After joining the
Washington, DC Council of Social Agencies in 1941, the League
became entitled to receive $4,000 a year in government funds.
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HOUSING
“As Chairperson of the DC Council’s Committee on Housing and Community Development, I’m proud to work
with the Greater Washington Urban League to provide greater affordable housing options for DC residents.
I’m also proud that in the 2017 budget, we have, among other things, allocated a total of $16 million for the
Home Purchase Assistance Program, a 60 percent increase.” - Anita Bonds, DC Council Member
187
people purchased
homes after attending
First Time Home
Buyer Workshop
680
people received free
credit reports and credit
counseling
people served by
Tenant-Based Rental
Assistance Program
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214
795
218
people purchased
homes through the
Home Purchase
Assistance Program
people received
services from
Emergency Rental
Assistance Program
270
people attended the
Orientation Workshops
and received certificates
from Inclusionary Zoning
Program
106
people served with
counseling services
from Foreclosure
Prevention Program
1956 - Organized 400 black and white ministers to boycott
downtown stores before Easter 1956 to change their employment
policies. Downtown stores integrated their staffs, following the
lead of Mortimer Lebowitz, president of Morton Stores.
HOUSING PORTFOLIO
•
The Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) plays a pivotal role in bringing together area residents in search of a place to
live and their new homes. This down payment and closing cost assistance program offers low-to-moderate income residents
up to $84,500 to purchase a home. The League has been the administrator of HPAP in partnership with the Department of
Housing and Community Development for 23 years. To date, the League has helped more than 7,000 recipiants become
homeowners.
•
Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) helps low income District residents get caught up on their rent and get back on
their feet. Applicants can get up to $6,000 in aid to pay overdue rent. As much as $900 can be obtained for a security deposit
and first month’s rent. The League began administering $600,000 in emergency rent funds for this powerful Department of
Human Services program in 2014. To date, the League has helped more than 5,000 residents with this program.
•
Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program (TBRA) pays up to 30 percent of housing expenses for qualified individuals living with
select health challenges in the District as well as Charles, Prince George’s and Calvert Counties in Maryland. On behalf of the
DC Department of Health, the League has been administering this program since 2007. Through this collection of programs,
$8.3 million in rent and utility assistance is provided to recipients each year. The program pays rent for as many as 325
people, including disabled residents.
•
The Housing Services Program (HSP) encompasses the myriad of housing counseling services the League offers. These
include monthly pre-ownership workshops, financial literacy training in the District, credit counseling in Maryland and other
partnerships. The League expanded its partnership with the Department of Housing and Community Development to double
down on its financial and housing counseling efforts with an additional $125,000 grant.
•
Lead-Safe Washington Program (LSW) enables the League to provide grant funding to property owners for the removal of
lead-based paint hazard. We accept applications for this program from homeowners or landlords of premises where lead is or
may be present and where children live.
•
Through its plethora of Foreclosure, Homebuyers and Credit Counseling services the League provides free assistance to
homeowners in Washington, DC, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County who need help navigating or avoiding the
foreclosure process. Since the economic crises of 2008, the League has invested over $1.5 million of partner funds to assist
families retain their homes, recover from job joss, regain their credit worthiness and/or prepare for homeownership.
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
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I became a Urban League board member because I always valued and
appreciated the role the League has played in bettering the lives of
low-income residents. They’re a strong voice and have a history of
giving voice to the voiceless. I have been pleasantly surprised and
really encouraged that the League has played such a major role in
issues such as police brutality, economic empowerment, providing
educational opportunity and focusing on key health issues,
particularly for children.
It’s a very important reminder that while some have done well,
others are suffering. I wouldn’t be so close to it without the League.
I give because the need is in front of me, tangible, not hidden
anymore. The League tries to help bring reasonable solutions to
tough problems. To whom much is given, more is expected.
“
Emmanuel Bailey
President and Chief Operating Officer, DC09, LLC
Board Member
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NANCY MIRANDA, HPAP RECIPIENT AND HPAP CHAMPION
When Nancy Miranda decided in 2003 that she wanted a house of her own, the DC resident and Real
Estate broker recalls having the idea but was at a loss to figure out how to make her dream come true.
That’s where staff members with our Home Assistance Purchase Program came in.
“They helped me with everything. I knew I’d need money down but didn’t know about closing
costs, inspections or deficiencies,” said Miranda with a laugh. “I’m a resourceful person. I went to
the League’s Housing and Counseling Services who put me through the program. It really helped me
because I had a daughter and a son and lived in a rent-controlled building but the landlords were trying
to put us out. I needed a place quickly.”
Miranda, a native Washingtonian who is a licensed Real Estate agent in DC, Maryland, Virginia and
Hawaii, said this program “pretty much saved me.” She said she went to classes to learn about how to
buy properties for about four months and had to sit still for 18 months until the contract was finalized.
She bought a condo on 13th and Clifton streets, on a street, she said, no one wanted to live on but
it was hers, Miranda said, a home of her own.
“No one can beat the Home Purchace Assistance Program.”
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CHARLESE JENNINGS, HPAP RECIPIENT AND HPAP CHAMPION
Since March 2014, DC resident and native Washingtonian Charlese Jennings
and her Maltese, Deogie, have enjoyed being the owner of her home, located at
MetroTown homes at Parkside in Northeast DC.
Jennings, who describes herself as a go-getter but one blessed by God,
said she was living at River Terrace in Section 8 housing when Erika White, Assistant
Program Manager for the Urban League’s Housing Program, told her that she
qualified for HPAP.
“It was a feeling of overwhelming joy. This put me in a position where I
didn’t have to deal with a landlord anymore,” said Jennings. “I know what being
a homeowner entailed by watching my mother and father as I was growing up. A
water pipe may go out, a refrigerator may fail, and its all on me. But I am ecstatic at
the opportunity to have something of my own.”
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UTILITIES ASSISTANCE
The goal of this cadre of programs is to help people become self-sufficient and
to provide short term crises intervention. The programs cover emergency assistance
for water, gas and electricity bills.
“People are in need because we’re still dealing with the prolonged
effects of an economic crisis that is forcing vulnerable populations to
choose between basic needs and paying their utilities. Our services
are free and we will work with anybody who asks for our help. We
gladly partner with PEPCO and WASA to assist clients unable to pay
their water, electricity or other utilities to get back on their feet,”
says Audrey Epperson, Director of Special Services.
1,400
individuals benefiting from
utility assistance each year
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: AUDREY EPPERSON
When Audrey Epperson accepted a job
to volunteer for the Greater Washington Urban
League’s Operation Rescue program in 1982, she
had no idea she’d still be with the civil and human
rights organization 33 years later.
Epperson, a Petersburg, Virginia native,
now serves as Director of Special Services,
overseeing a portfolio that includes employment,
training, utility assistance and a range of education
and cultural enrichment activities and programs
that include taking children on theatre trips, visits
to baseball games, basketball clinics and DC
attractions.
“I didn’t expect to be at the Urban League
or in Washington, DC this long. I came to DC in
1969 and expected to be here maybe five, six
years,” she said with a chuckle. “I fell in love with
Washington and the mission of the Urban League.
I’m still attempting to fulfill that.”
1956 - When Sterling Tucker became executive director of the Washington
Urban League in 1956 the struggle for civil rights was just getting underway;
but by the time his tenure ended considerable progress had been made
toward equal opportunity and full citizenship rights.
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The reason I serve on the Board of the Greater
Washington Urban League is the results the
organization produces. I believe in what the
League stands for and I know the financial
assistance we provide will be used to solve a
number of difficult issues in Washington DC.
The Greater Washington Urban League is truly
one of the premier charity organizations in the
Washington DC Metro area. The League has
opened doors for Enterprise Holdings throughout
the area and we are proud to be a supporter.
“
Todd Heavner
Director of Community Relations , Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Board Member
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EDUCATION/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
City officials estimate that at any given time in the District of Columbia, there are 700,000 vacant positions waiting to the filled. At the
same time, the unemployment rate in the nation’s capital varies from 5.5 to 13 percent, depending on the section of the city. Significant numbers
of area residents are unemployed and underemployed as the structure and nature of the job market continues to change.
We see ourselves as a bridge between those looking for a job and companies seeking to hire qualified applicants. The League works with
several public- and private-sector partners to prepare prospective emplyees for the job market. We often point clients to educational resources,
help some achieve a GED and we also recruit prospective employees for local companies.
Special Services Program Director Audrey Epperson said her staff has been working more closely with citizens returning from
incarceration. Once offenders have served their time, there are other
obstacles before these men and women despite them having paid their debt
to society. Many cannot get a job because they have a criminal record.
The League also manages a number of programs for children, youth,
and adults. Offerings include computer education and training, cultural
enrichment, health and fitness training, dropout prevention initiatives,
camping, and college scholarship programs.
Adults can take advantage of employment counseling, job
skills training and placement, career development services and family
reinforcement to adults seeking assistance.
1970 - The League opened a branch office in
Alexandria, Virginia and by 1976 moved into its first
privately owned headquarters at 3501 14th Street,
NW. This branch later emerged as The Northern
Virginia Urban League.
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GWUL SCHOLARSHIPS
The Greater Washington Urban League regards scholarships for college-bound students as an important and longstanding manifestation of its mission.
Since 1998, GWUL, in partnerships with various corporate sponsors, has granted more than $2 million in scholarships to more than 300 young adults.
Recipients have gone on to historically black colleges and universities; local institutions of higher education; Ivy League institutions and other colleges/
universities; to the Job Corps or other special post-secondary education and trade.
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CHARLOTTE ELIZABETH YANCEY EIGHTS SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT
Since 2008, the estate of Charlotte Elizabeth Yancey Eights had granted a scholarship endowment of $100,000 to the League for tuition payments
to one student annually. The recipient receives $8,000 total ($2,000 per year) over four years.
SAFEWAY SCHOLARSHIP
Safeway awards scholarships to six graduating high school seniors from the Washington metro area for first year college expenses. These annual
scholarships have totaled more than $300,000 for 104 students since 1998. Recipients this year will receive a one-time $2,500 scholarship.
SOUTHWEST AIRLINES TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP
Southwest Airlines is offering 2016 scholarship winners transportation vouchers to help them travel to/from their college destination or a
graduation vacation. Thirty-six graduating seniors have benefited over the past five years.
THURSDAY NETWORK “I EMPOWER” SCHOLARSHIP
For 18 years, the Thursday Network, an auxiliary of the Greater Washington Urban League, has awarded scholarships to deserving high school
seniors. Students must be graduating seniors from schools in Washington, DC, Prince George’s or Montgomery Counties in Maryland.
HERON MEDI SPA SCHOLARSHIP
Dr. A. Roy Heron is founder and chairman of the A. Roy Heron Global Foundation for Community Wellness. He and his practice are devoted to
providing quality care using the best of today’s medical practices and technology. This is the first year the scholarship has been made available.
GIANT SCHOLARSHIP
The Giant scholarship, a one-time $1,500 award, is given to a graduating high school senior from a school in Washington, DC, Prince George’s
County, or Montgomery County, Maryland school. The scholarship provides help for freshman year college expenses.
PEPSI BEVERAGES COMPANY SCHOLARSHIP
A first-generation college-bound Anacostia Senior High School senior is awarded a one-time $1,500 scholarship. Applicants are required to have a
2.5 grade point average as well as an exemplary record of community service.
SIMS FOUNDATION STEM SCHOLARSHIP
The Sims Foundation STEM Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from the STEM Academy at Cardozo High School. The family foundation
award, a one-time $1,000 award, helps cover expenses for the freshman year.
LINK STRATEGIC PARTNERS SCHOLARSHIP AND INTERNSHIP
LINK Strategic Partners is a District-based stakeholder engagement firm. LINK was founded on a simple concept: By understanding and truly
respecting the communities in which we operate, we can help our clients communicate and engage authentically and effectively.
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
I wanted to be associated with a non-profit that had
an impactful mission and sterling leadership. Early
on I was impressed by the Urban League’s history of
effective and strong advocacy and public policy in the
civil rights and social services arenas. The League is
an organization whose goals and values align with my
beliefs of providing opportunities for individuals to
become self-sufficient, independent and empowered.
Further, the Greater Washington Urban League has
a hallmark record of service-delivery in education,
health, housing.
“
Willa Hall Smith
Board Member
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ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER
Small businesses are the absolute heartbeat of the American economy. These entities are a vital part and a major element of the strength
of local economies. The Small Business Administration notes that small businesses have produced 60 to 80 percent of all new jobs every year over
the last 10 years. They are the cauldrons of innovation, creativity and growth as they stimulate economic development and create employment
opportunities. The League’s Entrepreneurship Center Program was launched in 2015 to nurture and strengthen small businesses.
The team mentors business people who are at varying levels of growth, to jumpstart, grow and sustain their business ventures. The program
provides technical assistance, funding options, management training, mentoring, business coaching, one-on-one counseling and resource referrals.
“We started by bringing in clients for one-on-one counseling and put people in an individualized developmental pipeline,” said Eldridge
Allen, Director of the Center. “Entrepreneurs learn about the challenges, goals and levels of success that are possible for new and existing
businesses.”
“Most businesses fail after the first two years. The two main reasons are a lack of capital
(not enough money invested) and lack of proper planning. A business plan should not be a stagnant
document. If it’s not a road map, what is it for? It’s an organic, moving, changing document.”
Five Tracks of Entrepreneurship Center Program
2
1
4
3
5
$
START IT
GROW IT
FUND IT
EXPAND IT
SELL IT
Allen acknowledges that it is still a challenge for small businesses to acquire needed
financing.
“We’re still in financial recovery mode since the recession. There’s a stringent, old-world
way of doing things: pristine credit, really good sources of collateralization, and proven records
of performance,” he said. “Entrepreneurship has a certain level of risk. It’s taking a passion and
excitement and implementing it in a systematic way to mitigate for the risk.”
Allen said researching the competition, trend analysis and studying the feasibility of the
business are all key elements of good business strategy in addidtion to the experience and exposure
of the prospective or existing business owner.
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78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
“Helping local entrepreneurs build and strengthen
their businesses makes sense because successful
businesses are strong anchors in our communities.
The Entrepreneurship Center Program is a clear
example of the League’s mission to help people
in our own backyard and take care of our own at
home.” – Eldridge Allen, ECP Director.
A BLACK LIFE, LLC
GIST FAMILY CATERING SERVICE
For budding businessman
Kaidi McMillan, the Entrepreneurship
Center Program is the perfect
resource and partner for helping him
grow his business. McMillan, oversees
a concern that publishes a business
directory, marketing and promotions
through social media and the
the promotion of his own company and services.
“The Entrepreneurship Center helped me with a few nonprofits. Now, the have connected me with legal help, assisted me
with trademarking and helped me in developing a ‘steady contract.’
Contracts were killing me, because of the time it took to draw them
up.”
McMillan said Eldridge Allen at the Entrepreneurship
Center facilitated a meeting with Jazz musician, vintner and the
Entrepreneurship Center’s first Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Marcus
Johnson, a partnership he’s excited about.
“They have helped us a great deal, helped us to the next
level,” said McMillan. “And if there are people who need help, they
will push them my way. I’m offering a helping hand as I get help.”
McMillan said he’s committed to, and gets great joy from,
helping black businesses.
“I’m watching them grow while I grow,” he said.
McMillan said he always knew he wanted to go into
business.
“From the time I was five, my mom will tell you. It’s about
being your own boss, being self-motivated to do something
greater,” he said. “I’m motivated to do something, something
greater. You have people who want to be entrepreneurs but don’t
know what that means. Having a consultant is not really owning
your own business. It’s having capital to do something. I’m seeing a
lot of people who do this. A lot of them are my clients.”
At the other end of the scale sits Gist
Family Catering Service, an established business
and DC institution for more than 20 years.
Yvonne Gist, matriarch of this family-owned
business said she met with Allen to ascertain
how she could grow her business and also find a
new location.
She and her husband Willie started
the business in 1988 after working in the food industry for 30 years at
places such as Emerson’s Steak House, Wendy’s and Beefsteak Charlie’s.
From his first job as a bus boy Willie advanced to become a cook and
manager. Their first regular clients were Africare and the National Council of
Negro Women and Verizon.
“Willie and I started the business. He was the main cook,” Mrs. Gist
recalled. “We cater Southern cooking, fried and baked chicken, BBQ ribs,
potato salad, mac and cheese, string beans, yams and collard greens.”
Desserts are also on the menu to satisfy customers’ culinary tastes.
These include peach and apple cobbler, cookies and brownies, sweet
potato pies, pound cakes and cheesecake. Gist Family Catering also offers
customers a full, healthy and vegetarian menu.
Since her husband’s passing, Mrs. Gist said her sister-in-law,
daughters and grandchildren are carrying on her husband’s legacy. The first
order of business, she explained, is expansion.
“Eighteen months ago, when I met Eldridge Allen, we wanted to
expand the business. Eldridge and his team are helping me. They have
given me good advice, things to look at and examine – some very valuable
advice.”
Carol House, one of the counselors at the Entrepreneurship Center
has been instrumental in helping Mrs. Gist with advice, counseling and
direction.
Going forward, Mrs. Gist said, she envisions getting settled in a new
space, finalizing the expansion and enjoying all the benefits that accrue
from that.
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
19
GLITZ AND GLAM JEWELRY
THE TRYSTIN KIER COMPANY
LeTresa Joseph Williams
credits the Entrepreneurship Center
Program with helping transform what
began as a hobby into a thriving
business. Williams said she believes
she was the first business owner to
go all the way through the program
in 2014-2015, adding that the staff
gave her direction and focus to help
her master a business that was new
to her.
Founder and Creator of Glitz and Glam Jewelry by LJ Williams,
Williams produces hand-crafted and custom design jewelry and also
sells fine jewelry procured from jewelry makers around the US. Among
her offerings are necklaces, gemstone bracelets and earrings. She
credits Eldridge Allen and his team for helping her develop a business
plan and helping her fine-tune different elements of her nascent
business.
“I am doing well. The Urban League truly helped me to launch
my business. I was in corporate America in Human Resources and fell
into this purely by accident,” said Williams, who earned a bachelor’s
degree from Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina and a
master’s from the University of Maryland. “At the time I didn’t have
a whole lot of expectations since this started as a hobby but now I’m
doing this full time.”
“I’ve always been a lover of fine designer jewelry,” she said. “I
started at the lower end from the standpoint of (making and selling)
beaded bracelets but I realized that I want more from it.”
Williams said she did more research, looked at how she could
make sterling silver bangles and diamond and gold jewelry and now
makes pieces with the help of a master jeweler.
Trystin Kier Francis is
founder & principal of the Trystin
Kier Company, a multi-disciplined
design firm that specializes in
residential and commercial Interior
Design as well as Production
Design for motion picture and
television. Kier founded the firm in
2006 because he felt the need to
turn his potential clients’ lifestyles
into luxury.
Francis, nominated as one of the top African American
interior designers in DC for 2015, said he turned to the
Entrepreneurship Center to see if the staff could help him grow his
company primarily through financing.
“So, I noticed that they had an entrepreneurial program and
thought it might help my business to get funding but assumed it was
not focused on first-time business owners,” said Francis. “I thought
it might be for seasoned and accomplished entrepreneurs, but
Eldridge has really been instrumental in giving me good feedback.”
A 33-year-old Brooklyn native whose parents are Panamanian
and who has sewing, fashion and design in his bloodline, Francis said
he continues to draw on feedback and creative ideas from a variety
of sources.
He said he plans to produce a design publication next year,
is looking at designing concepts in hotels in the Caribbean catering
to Millennials and is immersing himself in Real Estate projects in
different parts of the Caribbean.
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78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
I chose to serve on the board of the Greater
Washington Urban League because this
organization has consistently maintained
its relevancy by remaining in tune with local
needs. Moreover, it promotes strong corporate
citizenship by leveraging the philanthropic
efforts of the business community to help bridge
the financial gap when government programs are
not sufficient to support underserved citizens.
With the Greater Washington Urban League, I am
confident that my investment of time and capital
is being put to good use.
“
Marc K. Battle
Vice President, Pepco Region
Potomac Electric Power Company
Board Member
21
THURSDAY NETWORK
The Thursday Network is the Greater Washington Urban League’s link to
a new generation. It is our auxiliary for young professionals interested in civic
engagement, community service and professional development.
Their members are professionals ranging in age from 21-40. Very active, they
hosted aproximately 65 events in 2015. These range from professional development
and leadership development opportunities, to advocacy to mentoring to community
outreach.
Our Empowerment Scholarship program has awarded $153,000 to graduating
high school seniors who live or attend high school in the District of Columbia,
Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. Scholarships vary from $500 to
$2,000. Student recipients have gone on to colleges and universities as varied as
Texas A&M, NYU, Hampton and Howard universities.
“There are 63 young professional Urban League
auxiliaries across the country. The Greater Washington
Urban League’s Thursday Network is one of the oldest
and we’re quite proud to have won National Urban
League Young Professional Chapter of the Year Award
in 2015. We’re passionate about community service,
professional development and civic engagement. We
have a very diverse group -- lawyers, doctors, nonprofit managers, entrepreneurs, and people in the
healthcare industry. We have had an undeniable impact
throughout the DC Metro area.”
- Kendra Oates, President, Thursday Network
Our Empowerment Academy offers a curriculum and a slate of activities for 5th through 12 graders. Members mentor students, facilitate sessions
and teach the young people basic life, social and communication skills and civic engagement.
Young Blacks Give Back Month is a month of high-impact community service projects. The goal is to reenergize and reinvigorate the community by
organizing community health fairs, fundraisers for Mental Health awareness, anti-bullying activities and sports days through the month of May.
22
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
Thursday Network has provided job and employment projects for homeless men living in a transitional shelter. As part of this
project, they conducted mock interviews, pre- and post-interview preparations and discussions surrounding the men’s efforts to secure
a job.
Advocacy and Civic Engagement are central to Thursday Network’s mission. Our activities in this realm include Get Out the Vote
initiatives, economic empowerment activities for small businesses, and participation in the dialogue around numerous civic issues in the
DC area.
“There’s a really great thing about our group,” said Thursday Network President and the League Controller, Kendra Oates.
“We have always been focused on civic engagement. After the deaths of Trayvon Martin and Eric Garner, we produced ‘Know Your
Rights’ cards and went to many marches. We developed a police action plan and attended town halls in DC, Prince George’s County
and Montgomery County with police officials, the American Civil Liberties Union and government officials to hear from each person and
look at each piece of the puzzle.”
“We went to Anacostia High School to a “Know Your Rights” luncheon. We’ve been very, very involved in grassroots actions,
talking and reaching out to lawmakers, seeking to develop policies, to help stop deadly police-civilian encounters and push for
accountability.
1982 - The League inaugurated the Senior Neighbors
and Companions Clubs, the Interagency Center for
Persons in Need of Supervision; and the Disabled
Veterans Employment Project.
23
It is with enthusiasm that I support the
Greater Washington Urban League both
financially and as First Vice Chair of the Board
of Directors. I do so because it provides
critical services and programs in the key
sectors of income generation, employment,
education, housing, and health, as well as
facilitating access to food security, water,
and energy. Additionally, it is an effective
advocate of civil rights and equal opportunity.
“
Steve Horblitt
Retired Ambassador, Creative Associates International
First Vice Chair, Board of Directors
24
BACK 2 SCHOOL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
As this goes to press, we are planning our 3rd Annual Back 2 School Community Festival. This
is a day full of free activities for families to prepare students to return to school in the Fall.
Critical services include health screenings, hair grooming, and backpacks full of needed school
supplies. The event draws hundreds of area school children and their parents. Thanks to the
generous support of the business community, we are able to offer all the activities during the
festival for free.
1983 - Betti S. Whaley became the first female to head a League office when
she was named president of the Washington Urban League in 1983. Under
her leadership the League became completely immersed in the politics of
District neighborhoods and its programs touched nearly every aspect of black
life in the District.
25
WASHINGTON NATIONALS PARTNERSHIP
In 2015, the League joined with the Washington
Nationals to make a difference in the lives of
deserving youth across the region. Together
we distributed toys during the holidays, took
children to theatre productions, paid for
sports activities such as baseball clinics and
basketball events, and supervised visits to the
Spy Museum in downtown DC. We facilitated
the participation of young people in technology
programs, including trips to Tech expos
and supported a STEM program for middle
schoolers.
26
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
It is an honor and a privilege to serve an
organization that provides amazing services,
resources and opportunities for vulnerable members
of my community. We’re proud that we’ve joined
a force for good. This is a way to give back to the
community in a manner that makes a difference for
those individuals and families in need. Sometimes
change doesn’t come with the awesome power of a
hurricane. Often it comes quietly, a drop at a time,
like rainwater filling a river.
“
Stacy Burnette
Senior Director of Government & Regulatory Affairs,
Beltway Region , Comcast Cable Corporation
Board Member
27
ADVOCACY
Because of our long standing position in the community, we have a deep
understanding of the issues impacting various constituencies we serve.
Our story is often called upon to testify in matters before local and
regional legislative and regulatory bodies. We also use various media
outlets to further thought leadership on various matters of public policy.
“The League takes advocacy serious and takes every opportunity
to
shout
from the rooftops, so to speak,” according to President and CEO
listeners in the District,
George
Lambert.
Maryland and Virginia
He contributes monthly columns to the Washington AFRO and the
Washington Informer Newspapers, both with a combined readership
of more than 64,275 readers. In 2015, the topics included bridging the
income and wealth gaps; contending with the police-involved killings
of primarily young black men women and children across the US; the
lingering effects of the 2007-08 housing crash on black and Latino
families; unemployment and other thorny social, political and economic
issues.
Every Sunday morning more than 70,000 listeners tune in to
either WPGC 95.5 FM or WJFK 1580 AM for “On Track,“ (our public
readers of the
affairs radio program focusing on news and information on relevant
Washington AFRO and
issues affecting our community)
Washington Informer
The 30-minute weekly public affairs program - which is simulcast on Sunday mornings at 7 a.m. - has been a broadcast staple covering the league since 1990. Host
and executive Producer RolandMarie Turner said in addition to the advocacy issues highlighted
with Lamberts articles, the program highlights topics and issues such as jobs, employment, housing
foreclosure assistance, health and wellness. “Anything that is relevant and affects the community we
serve,” she said.
70,000+
64,275
28
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
LIST OF RADIO SHOW GUESTS
•
National Urban League
President Marc Morial
• DC Councilmember
Anita Bonds
• US Housing and Urban
Development Secretary
Julian Castro
• Actor Lamman Rucker
• Comedian Tommy Davidson
• DHCD Agency Director
Polly Donaldson
• Jazz musician and
businessman Marcus Johnson
• Director of the Washington
Bureau of the Urban League,
Don Craven
“When people are in need, they often don’t care
where the help comes from. But in the Washington
Metro region, the Greater Washington Urban League
has earned the reputation as an organization the
community can depend on. It isn’t far-fetched
to believe that without the fine work of this
organization, many families would be without
utilities or a place to sleep. From toddlers to seniors,
the community can depend on the Urban League’s
services. The organization’s work is invaluable.”
“
Norma Barfield
Board Member
29
FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Fundraisers provide the fuel that runs the League’s operations. The money we raised
in 2015 from activities such as our annual Whitney M. Young Gala and Golf Tournament, help
finance programs which fill critical needs, keep the lights on, and retain the talented/dedicated
staff to futher the mission.
Our annual gala is perhaps the signature event on our social calendar and its purpose
is clear: to raise $500,000 to help a diverse constellation of Washington-area residents
become self-sufficient, be it in the areas of housing and community development; education,
employment and training; health and nutrition literacy; and emergency utility assistance.
The 2015 Golf Tournament allowed us to mix the business of soliciting dollars with a
fun, challenging and demanding activity. Sponsors, donors and other stakeholders came out to
walk proudly, play with purpose and try to conquer the course. It was a win-win for all involved
although we like to think that the League got the better part of the bargain because we secured
money to offer a helping hand to vulnerable residents facing an assortment of challenges.
30
1995 - The League created an Office of Environmental Programs to interest District youth in
environmental issues. Some of the programs include the Water, Air, Land and Legislation Program,
Elementary Environmental Education Explorers; Forestry and Landscaping; Urban Water Festival;
Wonderful Outdoor World; Lead and Asbestos Abatement Entrepreneur Program; Water Education for
Teachers; Environmental Education and Training Partnership.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
CHAIR
Michael P. Akin
President, Reingold Link
FIRST VICE CHAIR
Stephen A. Horblitt
Retired Ambassador Creative
Associates International
SECRETARY
Loretta S. Caldwell
LS Caldwell & Associates
GENERAL COUNSEL
A. Scott Bolden
Partner - Reed Smith LLP
Alex Barron
Vice President, Macy’s
Marc K. Battle
Vice President, Pepco Region
Potomac Electric Power Company
Jackie Bradford
President and General Manager
WRC NBC 4
Stacy Burnette
Senior Director
Government & Regulatory Affairs,
Beltway Region
Comcast Cable Corporation
Kevin Canary
General Manager
NVR, Inc.
CHAIR OF FINANCE COMMITTEE
Robert (Bob) Marshall
Westley H. Dickerson, Jr.
Business Banking Manager
Sales Manager
Wells Fargo
Pepsi Beverage Company
THURSDAY NETWORK
Derrick Freeman
Kendra Oates
Senior Director, Legislative
President, Thursday Network
Programs
Nuclear Energy Department
GENERAL BOARD MEMBERS
Robin L. Anderson
Human Resources Director
Giant Food LLC, Ahold USA
Todd E. Heavner
Director of Community Relations
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Jim S. Anglemyer
President
WCS Construction, LLC
Katelyn J. Jackson
Senior Manager, Public Affairs &
Communications
Coca-Cola North America
Emmanuel S. Bailey, MBA, PHR
President and Chief Operating Earle F. Jones
Vice President, Federal Affairs
Officer
Eastern Division, Comcast
DC09, LLC
Norma C. Barfield
Tonya Vidal Kinlow
Vice President, Community
Engagement,
Advocacy and Government Affairs
Children’s National
Steven Knapp
President, George Washington
University
Roger A. Krone
Chief Executive Officer
Leidos, Inc.
Josh Lasky
Community Green Lead
Center for Green Schools, US
Green Building Council
Amanda Talbert
Public Affairs Coordinator
GEICO Insurance Company
Jack H. Olender, Esq.
Jack H. Olender & Associates,
PC
Herbert R. Tillery
Executive Director
District of Columbia College
Success Foundation
Shanelle C. Patterson, Esq.
Associate Attorney
The National Law Offices of
Julius P. Terrell, PLLC Counsel
Skywire
Annie P. Whatley
Acting Associate Director
Office of Minority Economic
Impact and Diversity
U.S. Department of Energy
Stacey J. Brown, Esq.
Safeway
Bryant Robinson III
Senior Vice President & General
Counsel
Skywire
William H. Simons
Community Volunteer
Sean Trice
Partner
The Law Offices of Erika E.
Cole, LLC
Rita D. Lassiter
Citizens Services Specialist,
District 6
Council Member Derrick Leon Davis
Prince George’s County Council
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Charita R. Mariner
Market Manager 508 - Southern
Maryland Area
Walmart
Gregory W. Fazakerley
Chair and CEO
CG Investments, Inc.
Robin McClain
Vice President, Marketing &
Communications
Destination DC
Charis A. Goff
GWUL STAFF
Judy Holland
George H. Lambert, Jr.
President/CEO
Craig Muckle
Jesse Price
Senior Director, Federal Affairs
Department
Eli Lilly and Company
Willa Hall Smith
Capree Bell
Manager, Recruitment
Teach for America
Jessica Kruvant
Program Associate
Creative Associates International,
Inc.
Kyle Williams
Advanced Operations Support
Technician
Vonage Business
Kimberly L. Corbin
Chief Financial Officer
Catherine Hogan
Don Lowery
Chief Program Officer
Vice President Communications and
Government Affairs
Monica A. Hutcherson
Nielsen Company
Executive Assistant to
President and CEO
Jennifer McDaniel
Marketing Specialist
Living Social
78 Years as the Heartbeat of the Community
31
“Even though I live firmly in the present, I do think
sometimes about the legacy we’ll leave behind
when we are gone. That’s one good reason to build
or contribute to building an institution. Most of us
want to feel as if there will be something tangible
that speaks to what we felt was important. The
Greater Washington Urban League is a great
example of an organization that makes a lasting
impression that serves as a buffer for people
going through difficulties in their lives. It’s good
that the League is here. If it wasn’t, there would be
a large hole that someone else in the community
would have to fill.”
“
Robert (Bob) Marshall
Business Banking Manager, Wells Fargo
Chair of Finance Committee
32
FINANCIALS
Rental Income
6%
Contributions
3%
Other
5%
Sponsorship
14%
Government
Grants
72%
Employment, Education
& Training
3%
Entrpreneurship
Center
2%
General Fund &
Administation
18%
Special Events
4%
Housing
74%
2000 - Because of its increasing clientele, the League launched a $10 million capital
campaign in March of 2000 to build a new headquarters. The League’s Capital Campaign
raised more than $4.3 million through its “Create a Legacy” donor wall to retire the $2.9
million mortgage on its headquarters building at 2901 14th Street NW. Located in the heart
of a thriving racially and culturally diverse Columbia Heights community, this is where the
League continues to serve more than 65,000 clients each year.
33
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SPONSOR
VOLUNTEER
THANK YOU
Greater Washington Urban League Impact Report 2015
34
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Urban League
2901 14TH STREET NW | WASHINGTON, DC 20009 | WWW.GWUL.ORG
GREATER WASHINGTON URBAN LEAGUE
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