United Way African American Leadership was created in 1999 as a subcommittee of The Palmetto Society, United Way’s leadership giving recognition group. The purpose of African American Leadership is to recognize the philanthropic efforts in our community. African American Leadership serves two purposes:

• to develop leadership opportunities in civic and non-profit organizations for African Americans who want to make a difference in the community in which they live
• to encourage participation as a Palmetto Society member
  
  

What Is African American Leadership?

African American Leadership is made up of those who contribute at $1,000 or more annually through the United Way campaign. The goal of African American Leadership is to strengthen our community by identifying and promoting African Americans who are dedicated to furthering philanthropy. This group continues to recognize the contributions of African Americans who make a significant, positive difference in the community.

What We Do

• AAL Annual FANtastic Event: An annual recognition and cultivation event. Members and their guests have the opportunity to network while spending time in a unique setting. Attendees bring portable fans to donate to senior citizens.
• New Member Reception: African American Leadership members are invited to attend a reception in honor of all new members. New members have the opportunity to meet and network with other interesting and engaged African American activists.
  
• Board/Committee Involvement: Members are given the opportunity to submit their names to local agencies for consideration for positions on agency boards and committees.
• African American E-Newsletter: A semi-annual e-mail publication that is sent to members to update them on African American Leadership and United Way news. Each issue will feature African American Leadership events, volunteer opportunities and important upcoming dates to remember. We will also share how dollars given by African American Leadership members are making a difference in our community.
• Volunteer Outreach Projects: African American Leadership members take part in a "Speed Mentoring" project offering high school students information on career options, as well as Graduate Greenville's annual Opening Doors to Success Day, which targets area youth at risk of not graduating.   

Event Sponsors make our events possible.

African Americans in our community are committing time, energy and financial resources to build a strong community through United Way. If you would like to become an African American Leadership member or would like more information, please contact United Way’s Leadership Giving staff.