ABout

Our

Vision & Mission

Our Vision

At the Greater Washington Urban League, we envision a region of infinite possibilities where individuals, families, and communities flourish and thrive, with equitable access to the resources, opportunities, and support that foster economic security, collective well-being, and shared prosperity.

Our Mission

Rooted in our civil rights legacy, the Greater Washington Urban League works to break down barriers, expand economic opportunity, and strengthen communities throughout the region. Through direct services, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, we work alongside individuals, families, and communities to expand access to the resources, support, and opportunities that foster stability, advance economic mobility, and create pathways to lasting prosperity.

about

The League

ESTABLISHED IN

1938

90+

STAFF EMPLOYED

Founded in 1938 during the Great Migration, the Greater Washington Urban League is one of the region’s longstanding civil rights and human services organizations. At a time when Black families arriving in Washington, DC faced segregation, discrimination, and limited economic opportunity, the League emerged as a vital source of advocacy, support, and pathways to a better future.

For nearly 90 years, we have built upon that foundation, working to remove barriers, expand access to opportunity, and strengthen the economic and social well-being of the communities we serve. While our work has evolved to respond to changing needs and challenges, our commitment to advancing equity, economic mobility, and the collective strength of our communities remains unwavering.

Today, GWUL serves individuals and families throughout Washington, DC, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County, Maryland. Through programs focused on housing stability, financial inclusion, workforce readiness and career advancement, entrepreneurship, family wellness, and community support, we help people navigate immediate challenges while building the foundation for long-term stability, self-sufficiency, and prosperity.

A Voice for Equity, Opportunity, and the Collective Power of Our Communities

As an affiliate of the National Urban League and a proud member of the United Way of the National Capital Area, GWUL is part of a broader movement dedicated to advancing civil rights, economic opportunity, and stronger communities.

With a dedicated team of professionals and programs reaching thousands of individuals and families annually, we combine direct services, advocacy, and community partnerships to create meaningful and lasting impact across the region.

We believe in the strength, resilience, and limitless possibilities of our communities. Guided by our history and inspired by the future we can build together, we remain committed to advancing a Greater Washington region where barriers are broken, opportunities are expanded, and individuals, families, and communities flourish for generations to come.

Our story of

Change

1938

Foundations of Equality

In 1938, as Black families fled the Jim Crow South for a better life in DC, the League was born. At the time, Black residents faced staggering unemployment, and most worked in low-wage, part-time jobs. The League’s founders made it their mission to change that—championing the creation of more job opportunities and establishing education and organizational channels to inspire growth and opportunity.

1941

Securing Early Funding

With no government funding to start, the League raised $10,000 in its first campaign and qualified for $4,000 in government funds in 1941, marking the beginning of its enduring success in advocating for the Black community.

1951

Challenges and Resistance

Despite some resistance from the community, the League’s work in the 1950s laid the foundation for significant change. The battle for civil rights was gaining momentum, and the League was committed to being part of that progress.

1956

Progress Under Tucker

Sterling Tucker’s leadership began in 1956, and under his direction, the League made strides toward equal rights and opportunity, helping to lay the groundwork for the civil rights movement.

1960

Transformative 1960s

The 1960s brought great change to the League and the nation. As the civil rights movement gained momentum, the League became an essential part of this movement, advocating for equal treatment for all.

1970

Expanding Horizons

The 1970s saw the League’s expansion with a second office in Alexandria and a move to its first privately owned headquarters. It wasn’t just about advocacy anymore—it was about direct action and providing opportunities for those who needed them most.

1980

Bridging Divides

During the 1980s, while the city saw growth, the struggle for true equality continued. The League’s work remained critical in bridging divides and advocating for Black residents.

1983

Breaking Barriers

Betti S. Whaley made history in 1983 as the first woman to lead the League, and under her leadership, the League became deeply involved in political advocacy and community enhancement.

1990

Expanding the Mission

In 1990, the organization changed its name to the Greater Washington Urban League to reflect its expanded reach into Maryland. Maudine R. Cooper’s leadership further solidified the League’s role as a critical force in advancing communities and providing support across various areas of need.

2014

Continuing the Legacy

Under George Lambert’s leadership, the League remains dedicated to closing the racial equity gap. We continue to provide strategic resources to uplift Black communities and ensure that the next generation has the tools to succeed.

Join the

Movement

Our work is far from done. We need your support. We need you to be part of the solution. Together, we can build a better future, one where justice, equity, and opportunity are available to all.