From the Desk of the NYUL President | February 2022

Dear NYUL Family,

We are so pleased to share this first newsletter of 2022 with you. Although we are in a new year, we are facing the same struggles. Fighting for voting rights, managing COVID and addressing the economic, educational and emotional needs of our communities remain our top priorities. As a result, this year our celebration of Black History Month will feature opportunities to both volunteer and participate in a range of NYUL programs and services. We invite you to join us.

As you know, Black History Month was created by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Since that time, the month has been dedicated to celebrating the historic and current contributions of African-Americans to American life. During this time of heightened awareness of racial disparities exacerbated by COVID, we invite you to read our State of Black New York, connect with on-going opportunities for service at our organization, and learn about ways to diversify your workforce.

State of Black New York Lunch & Learn with NYUL President & CEO Arva Rice – Anytime month of February

Last year, the New York Urban League released The State of Black New York Report, in keeping with the National Urban League’s State of Black America. This report utilizes data from the National Urban League’s Equality Index™, Robin Hood & Columbia University’s Poverty and Early Childhood Poverty Trackers, and key citywide data to highlight disparities among Black New Yorkers and propose solutions across our national program areas: Economics, Education, Digital Divide, Civic Engagement, Social (Criminal) Justice, and Health. We invite you to host a Lunch and Learn or Fireside Chat to discuss about the report.

Young Professionals Join Week – February 7-14th

Are you 21-40 years of age and looking for a way to give back to your community, build your network and connect with other like-minded New Yorkers, join the

New York Urban League Young Professionals for Join Week February 7-14th. The New York Urban League Young Professionals(NYULYP) was created to promote and support the mission of the New York Urban League by training the next generation of civic and business leaders through volunteer opportunities, personal and professional development, and civic engagement.

Black Business Matters - Application Due February 9th

The New York Urban League Small Business Solutions Center will host an exciting business plan writing program for entrepreneurs. Over 10 weeks, the group will take a deep dive into strategy, marketing financials, the competitive landscape and more. Guest speakers will share their expertise in human resources, general business law and small business accounting. Participants will also receive one-on-one support and be partnered into peer learning circles.

Supplier Diversity and its Critical Role in DEI Strategy Workshop – February 15th

A key element of a robust diversity, equity and inclusion strategy involves staffing, recruitment and retention. Another key element is implementation of a supplier diversity program. Learn how to create, implement and expand your program at this session. This workshop is being provided by our newly launched Diversity & Inclusion Lab, an incubator for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, Recruitment and Best workplace practices. Register for the workshop today

NYUL Day – February 24th

Celebrate Black History Month by sporting NYUL gear and posting on social media

the importance of Black History Month as well as your connection to the New York Urban League. T-shirts, sweatshirts and other NYUL gear with our special “Afro Girl or Boy” are available with other items at our NYUL store

NYUL Virtual Open House – February 24th

Looking to make a career change or find a new position? Want to volunteer your time and talents to a worthy cause? Join us virtually on February 24 from 6:30-8pm to learn how you can volunteer and enroll!

For more information or to join our effort, contact Claude Aska, Director of Development at CAska@nyul.org or visit www.nyul.org.

Thank you for your partnership.

Sincerely,

Arva Rice | President & CEO

New York Urban League, Inc.