CENTENE CONNECTED COMMUNITY CENTER GRAND OPENING
SENIOR LIVING CENTER GRAND OPENI
JENIFER LEWIS AT HEADQUARTERS
ENTREPRENEURSHIP & WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER GRAND OPENING
URBAN LEAGUE OF THE YEAR
Centene Connected Community Center Grand Opening
On July 30th, we proudly inaugurated the Urban League Centene Connected Community Center, located at 2900 Pershall Road. This cutting-edge facility, generously funded through a substantial donation from Centene Corporation, represents a significant advancement in our ongoing mission to empower and uplift the North County community.
The center will serve as a pivotal resource, offering a range of services including childcare, housing assistance, financial support, and educational programs. It is poised to become a cornerstone for driving positive change and fostering development within the region.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our esteemed partners, including The Little Bit Foundation, Youth in Need, Heat Up, Cool Down, At Home Care, the Health Care Agency, and Enterprise Bank. Through these collaborative efforts, we are collectively contributing to the creation of a brighter, more equitable future.
Urban League Plaza Groundbreaking Ceremony
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of the $8 5 million Urban League Plaza, situated on West Florissant in the Ferguson/Dellwood Corridor. This development marks a significant milestone as we reflect on the 10th anniversary of the events in Ferguson and the tragic death of Michael Brown. The Urban League Plaza symbolizes a renewed commitment to rebirth and revitalization within the community.
The Urban League Plaza will be anchored by a branch of First Bank and will feature a diverse array of amenities, including a sit-down restaurant, banquet facilities, commercial spaces, Murray’s Catering, and a Proficient Chiropractor facility. This project transcends mere construction; it is a strategic initiative designed to generate employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in North County.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed strategic partners: the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Department of Commerce, St. Louis County, Emerson, First Bank, the State of Missouri, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the St. Louis County Port Authority, the Great Streets Project, STL Partnership, the City of Dellwood, and our Capital Campaign Chairman, Ed Monser. Through our collective efforts, we are turning this transformative vision into reality
This project represents our fourth investment in the Ferguson/Dellwood area, bringing our total commitment to over $50 million
Senior Living Center Grand Opening
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, in partnership with Gardner Capital, is proud to announce the grand opening of the Urban League Senior Apartments in Dellwood, Missouri. Held on May 21, 2024, this $10 million senior housing development addresses the urgent need for affordable housing options for seniors. This significant milestone also coincides with the tenth anniversary of the Ferguson unrest, underscoring our ongoing commitment to addressing critical community needs and fostering long-term positive change.
Details:
Location: 9947 W Florissant Ave, Dellwood, MO 63135
Features:
44 modern apartments (1 & 2-bedroom)
Energy-efficient appliances
Universal design features
Resident lounge, food pantry, fitness classes, computer center
Special Initiatives:
Two Tesla Model 3s donated for free senior transportation 20 years of free vehicle charging funded by GCRE Upward Mobility Funds
Thank you to our partners: Grow America, St. Louis County, Missouri Housing Development Commission, KAI, Centene, St Louis Economic Development Partnership, City of Dellwood, HUD, EPA, and Great Southern Bank.
Entrepreneurship & Women’s Business Center Grand Opening
The grand opening of the Urban League Entrepreneurship and Women’s Business Center was an overwhelming success. On July 15, 2024, we proudly inaugurated this remarkable new facility, designed to support local entrepreneurs, with a special emphasis on women and minority business owners. The center is situated in the historic Commerce Bank building in the heart of North St. Louis.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Commerce Bank and the Kemper Family for their generous donation of this beautiful facility to the Urban League Their support enables us to expand our programs and initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth and supporting business development We also value our 25-year partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the continued support from the National Urban League.
The new center will not only promote entrepreneurial advancement but will also accommodate several members of the Public Safety Department and serve as a venue for community meetings organized by the Federation of Block Units.
Jenifer Lewis Visits ULSTL Headquarters
Save Our Sisters proudly hosted Jenifer Lewis, widely celebrated as "The Mother of Black Hollywood," at our Regional Headquarters. The event featured a dynamic interview conducted by Carol Daniel, Director of Save Our Sisters’ Women’s Empowerment Program, and was attended by an engaged and enthusiastic audience.
Throughout the event, Ms. Lewis imparted powerful messages emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, community involvement, mentorship, and the maintenance of both personal health and financial well-being. She also encouraged attendees to focus on empowering future generations to achieve their fullest potential.
The audience, comprised of a diverse and engaged group, responded with profound emotional reactions—laughter, tears, and expressions of joy—throughout the evening. The event was a resounding success and left a lasting impact on all who attended.
The award was categorized into large, mid-sized, and smaller market recognitions.
We extend our congratulations to the West Palm Beach, Springfield, IL, and Chattanooga affiliates for their outstanding achievements in their respective categories.
Our deepest appreciation for this recognition goes to our Management Team, Staff, Board Members, Donors, Volunteers, and Partners. Their steadfast commitment and support empower us to serve over 200,000 clients annually.
Urban Expo
The Urban Expo Back to School Community Empowerment Festival, held on July 1920, 2024, at America's Center, attracted 20,000 attendees. Organized by the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, St. Louis Public Schools, and presented by Ameren, Emerson, and the Regional Business Council, this annual event is the largest community engagement program by the Urban League
The Expo offered 10,000 free backpacks with school supplies, haircuts, physicals, medical screenings, 5,000 grocery bags worth $65 each, and featured over 200 vendors. Highlights included the Gospel Explosion, Hip-Hop Legends with the Sugar Hill Gang and Furious 5, the Save Our Sisters Women’s Empowerment Summit, and Rumble in St. Louis Amateur Boxing. Attendees also experienced the educational MEGA COLON Exhibit at the Urban Expo Health Fair, presented by Collaboration for Equitable Health, BJC, Mercy, and SSM Health.
Save Our Sons & Save Our Sisters Career Expo
The Urban Expo Career Hiring Fair featured more than 70 employers conducting onsite interviews; 110 CANDIDATES RECEIVED JOB OFFERS ON THE SPOT. The Career Hiring Fair was presented by the Regional Business Council and STL Works.com. The Save Our Sons team assembled a fully stocked clothes closet on site with complete professional attire for those who needed it – all attire was provided free of charge to the client. Over 200 people received interview attire valued at $40,000 (includes suits, shirts & ties, & belts).
Save Our Sisters Women’s Empowerment Summit
The Save Our Sisters Women’s Empowerment Summit provided an opportunity for 200 women to network and learn via powerful self-improvement seminars & workshops that were facilitated by some of our region’s most outstanding women
Total Woman Wellness Wealth Worth Work Empowerment & Resource Fair
The Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis recently held a Women’s Empowerment Seminar, which was centered on the themes of Wellness, Wealth, Work, and Worth. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Save Our Sisters, the Women’s Business Center, and the National Urban League Entrepren our St. Clair County Division, which was ins
We also wish to express our appreciation to Kesha Chatman, Carol Daniel, Aleta Grimes Mitchell, Tyler Joy, Paula E. W. Carey-Moore, and all other distinguished speakers, staff members, vendors, and attendees for their invaluable contributions and participation
SOS Employer AppreciationLuncheon
The inaugural ULSTL Save Our Sons & Sisters Employer Appreciation Luncheon was a resounding success Since the program's inception, over $125 million in wages have been generated, making a substantial impact on the community.
Sincere gratitude is extended to the esteemed employers who attended and were honored for their support and commitment. Their partnership is instrumental in effecting meaningful change in the lives of individuals within the community. Continued success and future milestones are eagerly anticipated.
SOS Hiring Fairs with GM and FedEx
The Save Our Sons/Sisters Workforce Development Program recently hosted two major hiring fairs in collaboration with General Motors and FedEx, attracting over 600 attendees. As a result of these events, more than 150 clients have already secured employment, with additional placements anticipated.
Appreciation is extended to Michael K. Holmes, Tydrell Stevens, and their entire team for their ongoing efforts to expand partnerships and enhance job placement opportunities throughout the region.
Back to School Festivals in North and South St. Louis
Two additional Back to School Festivals were recently held in North and South St. Louis to provide essential resources to the community. In conjunction with these events, a Hiring Fair was organized with the City of St. Louis to address 300 current job vacancies.
Sincere gratitude is extended to Mayor Tishaura O. Jones and her team for their continued partnership in offering valuable opportunities to clients. Special thanks are also due to Tydrell Stevens, LaChrisa Crenshaw, and their dedicated staff, partners, d l t f th i i t th St Loui it th h t th k
Juneteenth
The Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis proudly hosted, co-sponsored, and supported several Juneteenth celebrations this week at the Ferguson Center, the Youth and Family Center, and various other locations.
Special thanks are extended to Ferguson Mayor Ella M. Jones, Cynthia Wilson, Paula E. W. CareyMoore, Dr LaChrisa Crenshaw, Farrakhan Shegog, and all other staff, partners, and volunteers whose contributions were instrumental in making these events successful for our youth, seniors, and the broader community.
National Urban League 2024 Leadership Summit
Michael P. McMillan, President and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, attended the summit in Atlanta, where he participated in a panel discussion The panel focused on best practices in fundraising, leadership, community engagement, and government relations.
Annual Black Wall Street 314 Festival
In collaboration with the Federation of Block Units, the Urban League Housing Division and the Department of Public Safety participated in the Annual Black Wall Street 314 Festival. This event provided an opportunity to present Urban League services and programs to attendees The festival also featured numerous partners, including US Bank, Commerce Bank, SLDC, Ameren UE, among others.
The occasion was a valuable opportunity to engage meaningfully with clients, partners, and staff, fostering stronger connections and shared objectives.
ULSTL Receives $750,000 Congressional Earmark
The Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis Received a congressional earmark of $750,000 for the renovation of the Urban League Plaza, located behind the regional headquarters. This funding will significantly enhance the potential for retail and development in the heart of North St. Louis.
Appreciation is extended to Congresswoman Cori Bush and her staff for their diligent efforts over the past two years, working collaboratively with the Urban League team, including Michael K. Holmes, Beth-Anne Yakubu, Aundrea Young, and Barbara Bowman, to bring this project to fruition. This support is invaluable as it allows for the expansion of our work and impact in the community.
NUL President Tours ULSTL
National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial recently visited our Regional Headquarters, where he shared his extensive knowledge, insight, inspiration, and motivation with our staff. His leadership and unwavering commitment to the Urban League movement are deeply appreciated, particularly as he navigates and overcomes unprecedented challenges across the nation
We are especially grateful for his support of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and for his visionary leadership, which includes spearheading the National Urban League’s ambitious $250 million project to revitalize 125th Street with the new headquarters in Harlem.
Our thanks also go to State Senator Karla May for joining us during Mr Morial’s visit to engage in discussions on public policy in Missouri. We eagerly anticipate further advancements and achievements in the future.
Units Tours
Several tours have been conducted at the Urban League’s George Washington Carver Urban Farming Project over the past 3 months
Urban League Community Garden Party
At the Urban League Community Garden Party in East St Louis, fresh produce was distributed to local residents, emphasizing our commitment to promoting healthy living and supporting food security. The event highlighted our dedication to enhancing access to nutritious food and fostering community connections. This initiative, supported by our dedicated staff, volunteers, and partners, significantly contributed to the well-being of the East St Louis community
Head Start / Early Head Start
Field Day at Mt.
Zion
The children at Mt. Zion participated in the Field Day activities on June 5, 2024. Parents volunteered for the event by helping the children engage in various outdoor activities, including sidewalk art. Each classroom chose a different-colored T-shirt to represent their class It was a fun day for all
Washington University Volunteers at Mt. Zion
Washington University Occupational Therapy (OT) students volunteered at the Mt. Zion Center from June 24 to June 28, 2024. Having both OT students work in Head Start/Early classrooms was a pleasure. They helped to facilitate activities and had positive interactions with our children. The children were delighted to see them each day and sad to see them leave. This was an exciting experience for all.
Professional Development Retreat
The Urban League Head Start/Early Head Start program's two-week Professional Development Retreat from August 19-31, 2024, included sessions on Conscious Discipline, Policies and Procedures, and First Aid/CPR Keynote speaker Dr. Richard Lemon, an award-winning speaker with extensive experience, inspired the staff with his engaging storytelling and humor. The staff valued his insights and interactions with the Leadership Team.
Urban League Coding Camp
During the 6-week camp, 38 kids from 3rd to 8th grade attended, split into 6 weekly cohorts. They learned about artificial intelligence, coding, and cybersecurity/ethics. The camp, held at the Empowerment Center Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, was free, with snacks and lunch provided Participants came from various schools and districts.
Workforce Development
Youth Employement
Summer Work Expe ( ) p y g am:
Launched June 3, 2024, with 110 youths employed at $13/hour for 25 hours per week.
Generated an economic impact of $228,767 50
Employers included Audubon, Propel Kitchen, Bellefontaine Neighbors Recreation Center, and others.
Mock interview session held on July 10, 2024, at Forest Park Community College. Discover You Program:
Eight-week Career Exploration program from June 10 to August 1, 2024
Ninety youths participated in sessions on career exploration, resume building, and more.
Job shadowing at Thomas Eagleton Courthouse, Danforth Plant Science Center, Junior Achievement Trade Center, and the Griot Museum.
Guest speakers included Star Coburn, Aleta Grimes Mitchell, and Erica Williams.
Second Mock Interview Session:
Held on July 24, 2024, at Forest Park Community College with Mastercard staff. Included campus tour and information on enrollment and programs
Final Presentation:
Took place on July 29, 2024, at Emerson Theatre, Harris-Stowe State University.
Remarks by Dr. Alandera Stewart, Mrs. Hillary Frey, and Mr. Michael K. Holmes.
Guest speaker: Mikey Wren, 17-year-old entrepreneur.
Youth showcased learnings through game shows and skits.
Elevator Pitches featured participants including Ryan Anderson, Fre’Riyah Dukes, Sa’Mir Hawkins, Taylor Jones, Quanya Lyles, and Chase Meeks.
Each participant received a $900 stipend
Bank of America Internship
Five youth participated in the Bank of America Internship this year. They underwent a rigorous 4-week online training followed by 4 weeks of customer service. They worked 30 hours per week at $23 per hour.
Transition for Change
The Transition For Change Employment Program completed the 2023-2024 contract year with the following outcomes.
The 2024-2025 grant award is $186,000.00 with the same program target outcomes.
Re-Entry Program
The Urban League, in partnership with the St. Louis Transition Center, has enrolled 43 individuals in a three-week job readiness class. Supportive services include job leads, transportation, work clothes, and first-month rent assistance.
Housing Division
Homeownership Survey
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis in partnership with HomeGrown STL Network, and Urban Strategies conducted a Homeownership Survey This survey was to give insight on the interest in homeownership of African American Males.
Studies have shown that lower Black homeownership and the racial wealth gap are byproducts of systemic racism, including the legacies of slavery, Jim Crow segregation, redlining, and other anti-Black policies that targeted Black people and predominately Black neighborhoods. Residential segregation facilitates the extraction of wealth and other vital resources that fuel economic and social mobility. The loss of wealth in Black communities hastens a downward socioeconomic spiral in homeownership and policy solutions to racial wealth equity.
Results of survey shows out of 118 Black Males:
81 Likely to purchase a home
36 Unlikely to purchase a home
1 Currently a homeowner
Monthly Home Buying Education Classes
In partnership with US Bank Cohort, the Urban League Housing Division offers monthly in-person Home Buying Education Classes, featuring various partners to assist first-time buyers.
Freddie Mac/Guild Mortgage Seminar
Kaleia Richardson and Paula E. W. Carey-Moore participated in the Freddie Mac/Guild Mortgage Seminar, discovering that many Millennials, though ready to buy, are hesitant due to fear With 54% renting but interested in buying within two years, HUD FLEC aims to close this gap through outreach.
Interfaith Residence Rapid Rehousing Meet and Greet
Lakeshia Moore and Brianna Hare attended the Interfaith Residence Rapid Rehousing Meet and Greet to explore housing solutions, connect with landlords, and provide resources to our unhoused population.
Aid to Families Displaced in Bellefontaine
Representative Marlene Terry's office contacted the Urban League about families displaced from condemned properties in Bellefontaine Neighbors and temporarily housed at Westport Extended Stay. By August 1, 2024, Congresswoman Bush’s Office confirmed tenants would not pay August rent, and the landlord would cover hotel costs until repairs Food boxes and resource guides were provided, with additional support offered on August 6-7 at the Urban League Headquarters.
Featured on KSDK Channel 5
KSDK Channel 5 featured a Heritage House tenant who successfully became a homeowner after completing our Homebuyer Class. Additionally, CIBC awarded $10,000 at their Affordable Housing Luncheon in recognition of community efforts.
Community Outreach/Financial Division
In June, Cheryl Johnson, Kaleia Richardson, and Paula E. W. Carey-Moore attended a Cahokia Heights/HUD meeting in St. Clair County, IL, addressing concerns about displacement due to flooding and offering alternative solutions Cheryl and Paula followed up with a meeting in East St. Louis in August.
Financial Empowerment Center
From June to August, our Financial Empowerment Center hosted 11 workshops. Highlights included a “Building Credit” workshop at LIV Recovery Sober Living, a Father’s Day “Entrepreneurship” workshop with Financially Lit Fathers Movement, and a “Protecting Your Wealth” session with Commerce Bank and Legal Services of Eastern Missouri. July focused on credit building with a “Using Credit Cards Wisely” workshop and a Credit Wellness Event with Prosperity Connection. August featured workshops on “Buying A Car” and “Identity Theft” with Midland Bank. We had 146 clients registered and a total attendance of 184, including 38 walk-ins.
Emergency Financial Empowerment Roundtable
The St Louis Office of Financial Empowerment invited us to the Emergency Financial Empowerment Roundtable to discuss strategies for mitigating disaster impacts on vulnerable communities. They also toured our headquarters and were impressed by the resources we provide
Steering Committees
St. Louis Equal Housing and Community Reinvestment Alliance (SLEHCRA)/ Community Information Exchange (CIE)/ Adult Behavioral Health Network (BHR)/HUD-FLEC Pilot Program/St Louis Regional Financial Empowerment Coalition/ St Louis Builds Credit/ STL City CoC/ STL County CoC/ St Clair County, IL CoC/ Mercy Clinic/ CIBC Community Leaders Council/ HOMEGROWNStL/ Regional Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), Land Bank Coalition
Memberships
Credit Builders Alliance (CBA); National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) /Housing Action IL/ St Louis Realtors®/ MO Association of Realtors®/ National Association of Realtors®/Greater North County Chambers of Commerce/NAREB National Association of Real Estate Brokers
Michael Moehn and Warner Baxter Both Pledge $100,000
Michael Moehn, Chairman of our Board of Directors, and Warner Baxter, Executive Chairman of Ameren, both have pledged $100,000 to the capital campaign as a total gift over the next five years.
Nike Donates $100,000 to ULSTL
The Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis received $25,000 through DoorDash’s Project Dash Campaign. Project Dash is DoorDash’s initiative that directly addresses the UN's Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger by leveraging their logistical network to redistribute surplus food to communities in need.
RESTORING HOPE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE
The Restoring Hope Capital Campaign has achieved $31,833,048.00 via 53 Secured Gifts since July 2020. Our goal is $40 million. Listed are gifts by Donor Category as of 8/31/2024:
Other* - State of Missouri, Congressional Earmark, Sale of Property, Program Contribution, Ministry Contribution
20TH SALUTE TO WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
The Salute to Women in Leadership Gala will return on November 9, 2024, at the Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel, marking 20 years of honoring exceptional women who support our mission. The event will feature performances by R&B stars Kenny Lattimore and Regina Belle, and Renowned Actress Lynn Whitfield will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. Up to 18 outstanding women from our region will also be recognized. Sponsorships and tickets are available at www.ULSTL.com.
Confirmed Grants / In-Kind / Charitable Awards
1. $260,000 1-year grant from Boeing for Save Our Sons and St. Clair County Employment Services. 2nd consecutive year of the Urban League receiving the largest grant in the Region.
2. $250,000 3-year grant from US Bank for the Urban League Women’s Business Center and the Center for Entrepreneurship
3. $50,000 from AT&T for Digital Literacy Training
4. $21,000 from Associated Bank Special Events Sponsorships 2024 – 2025
5 $25,000 from Emerson to participate as Co-Presenting sponsor of the Urban Expo 2024
6 $25,000 from Regional business Council to serve as Co-Presenting sponsor of the Urban Expo and fund school supplies for the back-to-school giveaways.
7. $19,000 from The Collaboration of Equitable Health to participate as CoPresenting sponsor of the Urban Expo Health Fair 2024
8. $15,000 from US Bank to serve as Financial Family Feud Sponsor
9. $12,500 from US Bank for Special Event Sponsorships 2024 - 2025
10. $12,000 In-Kind contribution from Schnucks of healthy fruits & vegetables to serve as the Healthy Foods Pavilion presenter at the Urban Expo 2024
1 $250,000 from MSD for the Peter Bunce Campus
2. $135,000 from Anheuser-Busch for Special Events 2024-2025
3. $25,000 from Regions Bank for Urban League Entrepreneurship Center
Division of Public Safety
uly, August Door-to-Door Engagements:
rget neighborhood homes engaged: 4,940
mbus Square
e Park
Vander-Lou
sway East
rget quality engagements: 2,408 mbus Square
e Park
Vander-Lou
sway East
anagement Information:
ces Distributed in target hborhoods: 858
June: 470
July: 227
August: 161
ources Distributed in non-target neighborhoods: 967
June: 496
July: 268
August: 203
Neighborhood Family Resource
Enrollment Information:
June
Total Engagements: 334
July
Total Engagements: 1,173
August
Total Engagements: 1,388
Neighborhood Healing Network Information:
June
Enrolled: 10
Resource Referrals: 6
Public educational presentations: 2
Informational sessions facilitated: 1
July
Enrolled: 10
Resource Referrals: 12
Public educational presentations: 2
Informational sessions facilitated: 1
August
Enrolled: 15
Resource Referrals: 6
Public educational presentations: 2
Informational sessions facilitated: 1
Grill to Glory:
New Locations: Memphis and Kansas City, MO
Ongoing: St. Louis and East St. Louis
Focus: Combating food insecurity and promoting community engagement
Events: Neighborhood block parties
Participation: Over 300 St. Louis churches
Activities: Children's activities and resources from social service organizations
Impact: Enhances community connections and support networks
Urban Opioid Triage
Total Engagements: 900
Information:
June: 178
July: 289
August: 433
Resources Distributed:
Condoms: 4,015
Narcan: 127
Reported uses of Narcan: 25
Rehab Referrals: 13
Narcan Distribution:
June:
Businesses trained: 21
People trained: 146
Kits distributed: 217
July
Businesses trained: 13
People trained: 128
Kits distributed: 288
August
Businesses trained: 20
People trained: 100
Kits distributed: 296
Gun Violence Information:
June
De-Escalation Cases: 2
People Involved: 4
Relocations: 0
July
De-Escalation Cases: 4
People Involved: 11
Relocations: 0
August
De-Escalation Cases: 4
People Involved: 11
Relocations: 1
Community Events
June 2024 Events:
6/15 - Fountain Park Community Event 10 am - 2 pm, 4803 Fountain Park Ave, STL 63113
6/22 - Bethesda Temple Church "Together We Can Community Festival"
Resources 10 am 1 pm, 9420 West Florissant, STL 63136
8/24 - Centennial Christian Church's "Yard Sale" 8 am - 4 pm, 4950 Fountain Ave, STL 63113
8/24 - UL and Faith MB Church "Screening for a Healthier You" 11 am - 2 pm, 4738 Natural Bridge Ave
Slow Down St. Louis Campaign Kickoff Event
The campaign launch was a resounding success, marked by robust participation from St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Maryland Heights, and other community partners.
The collaborative efforts of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis (ULSTL), the Regional Business Council (RBC), and various community stakeholders highlighted a strong commitment to addressing fatalities related to speeding
The initiative’s strategic approach to advocating for safety and promoting responsible driving behaviors was well-received by attendees. This collaborative effort has set a solid foundation for meaningful change within the community, aiming to significantly enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents
Clean Up Build Up Block Builders In College Hill Neighborhood
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and the Regional Business Council once again partnered with Ameren, Spire, the City of St. Louis, American Water, Keeley Cares, Knoebel Construction Company, NuWay, the Federation of Block Units, Boeing, the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC), the Public Safety Collaborative, Job Corps, the Forestry Division, and Alderman Rasheen Lamont Aldridge to host the "Clean Up Build Up, Block Builders" initiative in the College Hill neighborhood
Over 200 volunteers dedicated their time despite the warm weather to carry out essential maintenance tasks. These efforts included the removal of large trees and overgrown weeds, cleaning alleys, and clearing overgrowth from vacant and abandoned properties The goal of these activities was to enhance public safety and beautify the community.
Appreciation is extended to Mayor Tishaura O. Jones for her exemplary leadership in fostering citywide collaboration and recognizing the significance of this initiative in restoring hope and improving neighborhoods Special thanks are also due to James Clark and his team for their relentless grassroots efforts throughout St. Louis.
• June 11, 2024, Monthly LIHEAP managers virtual meeting for state updates 9 am
• June 11, 2024 LIHEAP Steering Committee, Led by UL Sr. Direct for MO LIHEAP managers.
• June 28, 2024 LIHEAP State Staff and Ameren Meeting
• June 28 Ameren Quarterly Huddle
• July 9, 2024, Monthly LIHEAP managers virtual meeting for state updates 9 am.
• June 28 Ameren monthly Huddle • August 12-13, 2024
Ameren Sustainable Community Initiative • August 27, 2024
Ameren monthly Huddle
The LIHEAP Department Attended Outreach Events
• June 19, 2024 Freedom Summer STL Resource
• July 27, 2024 Freedom Summer STL Resource
• August 18, 2024 Save Our Sons & Sisters South City Event
•
•
• $3,232,098.13 $1,000,000.00 (ECIP)
$62,698.22
provided in Energy Assistance Grants paid to Suppliers (approximately) provided in Energy Crisis Intervention Program provided in Dollar Help and Dollar More
Weatherization
The Weatherization program has achieved remarkable success over the past three months, providing vital services to more than 70 homes. This initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency, leading to reduced home energy costs while simultaneously improving comfort, health, and safety for residents
The Weatherization Assistance Program services include:
Wall and Ceiling Insulation
Sealing Air Leaks in the home
Installing Weather Stripping
Dryer Venting
Glazing and Repairing Windows and Doors -
Performing Minor Duct Repair
Hot Water Tank Repair and Replacement
Furnace Repair and Replacement
Center for Entrepreneurship
WOKE Brand Clothing
WOKE Brand Clothing recently hosted its first fashion show on the riverfront. The event, featuring motorcycles, custom street rides, and stunning fashion and hairstyles, drew over 600 attendees against the backdrop of the St Louis Arch WOKE Brand Clothing is located in the Galleria Mall.
Black Women in Retail
Keisha Kandeh, a participant in our inaugural “Black Women in Retail” Walmart Accelerator cohort, has expanded her business with a new location on Cherokee Street. She has also joined the Capital Readiness Program Accelerator through the Minority Business Development Agency.
Grant Secured by Michelle Robinson
Michelle Robinson, founder of DEMIblue Vegan Nail Polish, has secured a significant grant, including monetary support, a year of free retail space at the Retail Incubator in the GROOVE, and a stipend for mentoring. She will lead a “Grants Writing Workshop” at our headquarters in September. With this grant, Michelle’s total awards near $500,000, and her products are now sold in over 250 locations nationwide.
In the News
FUFU n' Sauce has made headlines! Adjo, a participant in our “Black Women in Retail” Walmart Accelerator program, won 1st place in “The Great American Recipe” competition in July. This achievement highlights the exceptional talent within our program, as Adjo continues to excel in our second Walmart Accelerator cohort.
Panera Food Pantry June -
June
Families served: 663 Individuals served; 2,059
July
Families served: 965 Individuals served: 3,386
Families served: 707
August
served 2,285
St. Louis County Outreach CenterJennings
Health Van
The Health Van has been able to participate in three events over the summer:
Urban League Jennings Station Table Event (15 Blood Pressure Screenings)
Women’s Health Fair (12 Blood Pressure Screenings)
Rides and School Supplies at YMCA (25 Blood Pressure Screenings)
Resources for Seniors
The Urban League will take resources to the Senior Building quarterly The Outreach center set up at the Senior Building from 1-4 on August 20 to present the services that we have to offer. On that day there were 5 people to sign up for Keeping Current to assist them with their electric bills. We will drop food off as needed. We have had 25 of the residents to request food boxes.
Centene Volunteers Pack 630 Boxes
We thank the volunteers from Centene who came and packed 630 boxes for us at the Jennings Station Road Location.
Partnership with Advantage Solutions to Support Our Food Pantries
A heartfelt appreciation is extended to Advantage Solutions for their outstanding partnership and dedication. Together, we successfully packed nearly 500 boxes of food for distribution to our six food pantries across the region, making significant strides in combating food insecurity.
Special thanks are due to our esteemed Board Members Dave Peacock and Pamela Morris-Thornton, as well as Jasmina Walker, Kelli Hammersmith, and the entire Advantage Solutions team Their tireless efforts and commitment have made a substantial difference.
Additionally, we would like to acknowledge Quenesha Catron for her exceptional coordination of this collaboration. The success of this initiative is a testament to the impact that passionate volunteers can have.
June Food, Toiletries and PPE Distribution
Almost $100,000 in items were distributed to over 300 families.
Special thanks to the Panera bread corporate office team for helping us prepare for this distribution by coming to the Jennings Station Road location and packing 378 boxes of dry groceries worth $13,230 in revenue.
Community School Partnerships and Youth and Family Center
Community School Partnerships
Phone Calls to Families:
Over 15,500 calls to families to encourage school attendance
More than 17,900 routine check-in calls to prevent crises and provide referrals.
Student Engagement:
Facilitated over 25,000 engagements through social and emotional learning, mentoring, recreational activities, peer mediation, and academic enrichment.
Crisis Management:
Managed over 4,600 crisis situations, addressing needs like food, clothing, utilities, and housing.
Home Visits:
Conducted over 280 home visits to support attendance and provide essential supplies.
Summer Support:
Continued engagement with students and families at SLPS summer camp for academic enrichment and family stability
Youth and Family Center
Facility Enhancements:
New First Mid Bank branch to open at our location in late fall Clinic expansion from one to three examination rooms.
Grants Awarded:
$7,500 from the Optimist Club STL for the Community Champs program.
$10,000 from the East Missouri Foundation for the Jazzy and Soulful Seniors program
$11,000 from the St. Louis Community Foundation for operational support and capacity building.
Summer Camp:
Served 66 children and teenagers.
Partnered with St. Louis Public Library, John Burroughs Summer Enrichment, and African American authors for academic enrichment and cultural exploration.
Our senior programs also saw continued success, with field trips and wellness classes fostering community engagement and reducing social isolation We served between 60 and 70 older adults weekly, promoting wellness and a sense of belonging. Currently, over 150 older adults aged 50 and above are enrolled at our center.
As we look ahead to the fall and winter seasons, we anticipate continued growth and exciting developments at the Youth and Family Center. We invite you to witness our ongoing progress as we work towards building a more diverse and healthier community each day.
Michael McMillan Receives Award From Nike
Nike, through their Black Community Commitment partnership, recently honored our President & CEO, Michael McMillan.
The Nike, Inc. Black Community Commitment was established in June 2020, following the tragic murder of George Floyd This initiative was created to support organizations dedicated to economic empowerment, education, and social justice, with the goal of addressing racial inequality for Black Americans.
Richard Keith Davis II St. Louis’ 20 African American Leaders Under 40
Congratulations to Richard Keith Davis, II, Director of Multimedia Marketing & Graphic Design, for being recognized as one of St. Louis' 20 African American Leaders Under 40. This prestigious honor reflects Richard's outstanding career achievements and his steadfast commitment to community service, embodying the core values of the Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis Richard's exemplary contributions and dedication to making a positive impact resonate deeply with our mission. We take immense pride in his well-deserved recognition and are profoundly appreciative of his unwavering efforts to drive positive change each day.
