A 100th anniversary isn’t just about a number, it’s a resounding achievement. Making it to the century mark is a rarity for any group, but it’s even more notable when the organization has punctuated each decade with a commitment to community service.
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has reached this milestone by offering programs and resources that help African-Americans and others in the region build successful futures. Its four-pronged mission supports economic opportunity, educational excellence, community empowerment and civil rights advocacy. An affiliate of the National Urban League, it launched in 1918 and later set up a school, dental clinic and other programs to give African Americans access to services in an otherwise segregated society. The agency gained influence as a supporter of employment, health, housing, education, social justice and civil rights initiatives. Today, its 30 programs serve 100,000 people annually at 12 area offices through employment and financial training, GED and Head Start programs, scholarships, food, clothing, housing and utility assistance, and much more.
McMillan says the agency kicked off its year of celebration by teaming with Saint Louis University on a special program honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A January breakfast for 500 guests included Xernona Clayton and former U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young, both civil rights pioneers who worked closely with King. They were joined by National Urban League president Marc Morial, TV personality Judge Glenda Hatchett, and other civic and community leaders. “It was a historic moment,” McMillan says. “Having these icons in St. Louis to talk about diversity, inclusion and helping others was wonderful. And working with the university was a perfect way to commemorate our centennial because we have a common purpose of being men and women for others.”
The festivities continue March 24 with a black-tie Centennial Gala at the Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel. “It usually sells out, but this gala will be extra special, our largest one yet,” McMillan says. KSDK Channel 5 is producing an anniversary video highlighting the organization’s achievements and future plans, and Rene Knott will take the stage as emcee. “We’re very excited that Oscar-, Emmy- and Tony-award winning actress Viola Davis will join us as keynote speaker,” McMillan says. “Her commitment to social justice is a great fit with our message.”
Other exciting 2018 events are planned as well, including the Salute to Women in Leadership Gala and a new Urban Expo. A commemorative book by Dr. John Wright will be released later this year. “An important message we want people to take from our anniversary is to be inspired by our century of service and volunteer their own time,” McMillan says. “We’ve always been a bridge builder, a connector between business and government and the African-American community. We want area residents to be part of that, and the Urban League is the place to do it.”
Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis provides programs for economic opportunity, educational excellence, community empowerment and civil rights advocacy. Pictured on the cover, clockwise from top left: board chairman Keith Williamson, honorary gala co-chair David Steward, president and CEO Michael McMillan, National Urban League board chair Michael Neidorff and special event chair Emily Pitts. For more information on the Centennial Gala March 24, call 314.615.3600 or visit ulstl.com.
Cover design | Allie Bronsky
Cover photo | Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at top: President and CEO Michael McMillan and special guests open the Ferguson Community Empowerment Center.
Photo: Richard Davis