Advancing Opportunity. Strengthening Community.
Founded nationally in 1910, the Urban League movement has advanced economic empowerment and civil rights for more than a century. Since 1982, the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga has carried that mission forward locally, creating pathways for individuals, families, and communities to thrive.
O U R S T O R Y
Purpose
Growing in
Impact
Rooted in
Building Momentum
Over the years, the organization expanded its work to meet the evolving needs of Chattanooga—developing programs focused on workforce development, youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility. These efforts have helped individuals build skills, access opportunity, and strengthen their futures.
Focused on the Future
Today, the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga operates through a strategic model designed to create deeper and more measurable impact. Its work is carried forward through the:
Center for Equity & Inclusive Leadership
Center for Economic & Business Success
Center for Education & Family Empowerment
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program
Together, these centers and initiatives help connect individuals, families, and businesses to support the opportunities they need to thrive.
Where It Began
The Urban League of Greater Chattanooga was established in 1982 to expand access to opportunity and remove barriers to economic and social advancement. As part of the National Urban League network, the organization was built on a legacy of advocacy, empowerment, and community-driven change.
C E N T E R S & I N I T I A T I V E S
Why this work matters.
Opportunity is not always evenly distributed.
Across Chattanooga, disparities in education, employment, income, and access to resources continue to impact individuals and families. The Urban League exists to help close these gaps by connecting people to the relationships, programs, and opportunities that lead to long-term economic mobility and community well-being.
Center for Equity & Inclusive Leadership
Advancing inclusive leadership and equity through education, dialogue, and community engagement.
Center for Economic & Business Success
Supporting minority-owned businesses through training, mentorship, and business resources.
Center for Education & Family Empowerment
Helping individuals and families build stability through education, workforce, and support services.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Providing free tax preparation services that help families access refunds and credits.
10,980
SERVED
FISCAL YEAR
2025 IMPACT
Empowering Communities.
Changing Lives.
Individuals supported through ULGC Programs and Initiatives.
Education & Youth
1,506
Project Ready (NAS) Program
LEAP After School Program
STEAM Summer Camp
K-3 Literacy Tutoring (w/HCS)
MLK Day Youth Leadership Symposium
Day on the Hill & Civics Bowl
Financial Empowerment
8,500
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Financial Empowerment Education
& Coaching
Entrepreneur
Development
536
Next Level Accelerator
Money Talks Capital Access
Summit & EPL
E-Hub Minority Business Directory
Capital Access & Customers
Technical Assistance
Workforce & Leadership
438
ULGC Young Professionals
IBD Executive Leadership
Level Up Academy
Senior Employment Program
Hiring Fair & Career Coaching
State of Black Chattanooga
ULGC Timeline
-
1910
National Urban League Founded
The Urban League movement began its work to advance economic empowerment and civil rights nationwide.
-
1982
ULGC Established
The Urban League of Greater Chattanooga was founded to serve the Chattanooga community and expand access to opportunity.
-
2000s
Programs Expanded
Workforce development, youth initiatives, and education programs expand to meet community needs.
-
2010s
New Pathways to Opportunity
Digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and broader economic mobility efforts strengthen the organization’s impact.
-
2020s
Strategic Centers Launched
ULGC aligns its work through focused centers to deepen service delivery and improve outcomes.
-
Today
11,000+ Individuals Served Annually
Programs and initiatives continue to support thousands of residents across Chattanooga each year.
Building What’s Next
For more than four decades locally—and more than a century nationally—the Urban League has worked to expand opportunity and strengthen communities.
Together, we continue that work by investing in people, supporting progress, and building a stronger future for Chattanooga.