Photo courtesy of Tallahassee Magazine
Service to others is the focus of an Urban League Membership Campaign led in part by Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) President, Elmira Mangum, Ph.D.
The campaign, which officially launched in April, is co-chaired by Mangum and Florida State University President John Thrasher. Rev. Ernest Ferrell, President and CEO of the Tallahassee Urban League, said with a goal of raising $100,000 during the campaign, funds received would help provide support to various initiatives the organization has undertaken in the city.
A few examples of the programs and assistance provided to the community by the Urban League include housing rehabilitation, Black on Black crime prevention programs, financial literacy programs and the Youth Enrichment and Skills Development Program.
“We thought it would be a good idea to have both universities involved because of the important roles they hold in the local community. Both presidents have made a commitment to support this effort to the fullest,” Ferrell said.
The Tallahassee Urban League Chapter was established in 1969 by former FAMU President Benjamin L. Perry. Mangum said she looks forward to strengthening the dynamic collaborative spirit that has existed between FAMU and the Urban League for many years.
“Encouraging more of our neighbors, colleagues and relatives to join the organization can make a big difference in the growth and development of Tallahassee and the overall quality of life for our fellow citizens,” Mangum said.
Maggie Lewis-Butler, Chairwoman of the Urban League’s Board of Directors, said the primary function of the organization is to provide assistance and educational support to areas in the community that need it the most.
“I really enjoy the fact that we are helping others,” Lewis-Butler said. We assist in areas such as mortgage savings and educate our citizens to ensure they understand how to maintain an appropriate living environment,” Lewis-Butler said. “We feel President Mangum and President Thrasher will serve as our arms in the community and assist us with achieving the mission of the Tallahassee Urban League,” she added.
Also a member of the Leon County Schools Board of Education, Lewis-Butler said having both Mangum and Thrasher in leadership roles for the campaign is a great example of collaboration for area residents to observe.
“They willingly took a stand to serve as co-chairs and that helps the community understand that we do have the support of these two dynamic leaders in the community, in terms of helping others,” Lewis-Butler said.
Ferrell said he also believes the historic joint venture by the two presidents can help the community in multiple ways.
“We’re excited that they both consented to do it. This is historical and we hope they will commit to joining the organization and encourage their faculty, staff and students to become members of the Urban League as well,” he said.
For more information on the campaign or the Tallahassee Urban League please call 850.222-6111.