Who We Are
The African American Leadership Society (AALS) is a dedicated group of givers that inspire powerful philanthropists though leadership, fundraising, and advocacy. We offer a variety of volunteer and networking opportunities for out members throughout the year In addition we support increasing diversity and inclusion in non-profit board service through our enthusiastic sponsorship of Project Inclusion.
AALS members give at a minimum of $1,000 per year or participate in the Step-Up Program which starts at $600 per year.
For more information, email aals@unitedwayshr.org.
Help us change the odds.
About AALS
The African American Leadership Society consists of African American philanthropists who contribute $1,000 or more to United Way of South Hampton Roads. Members have the opportunity to see the impact that their financial support and volunteerism have on community issues.
Throughout our history, African Americans have always embraced a legacy of giving. We give to our churches, social and civic organizations and volunteer our time. For African Americans, the reason for giving is simple; we believe in taking care of one another.
Our Mission: To inspire powerful philanthropists through leadership, fundraising, and advocacy.
Our Vision: Engage philanthropists who use their resources to help resolve issues that are vital to our community through strategic programs supporting education and health.
Expected Outcome: To increase support for initiatives that close gaps in educational attainment and health disparities
Specific Programs and Initiatives: We meet our mission and vision through support for:
- Mentoring
- Providing Volunteer Opportunities
- Increasing Diversity and Inclusion in Nonprofit Management
Why Join AALS?
When you become an AALS Member you enjoy great benefits: networking and recognition events, volunteer opportunities and much, much more! Diversity in all its forms is very important to United Way of South Hampton Roads. Your contribution to the African American Leadership Society goes toward improving and sustaining the lives of thousands of individuals and families in the South Hampton Roads community. Your dollars give agencies the ability to provide programs that directly impact individuals within our community and several United Way certified agencies serve 50% or more African American clients.
AALS Step-Up Program
For those individuals not quite ready to join AALS at the $1,000 level, the AALS Step-Up program allows current leadership givers to gradually increase their gift over a period of three years. Step-Up members will make a commitment to increase their United Way gift, giving at least $600 in year one, $800 in year two and $1,000 in year three. Step-Up members are recognized as AALS members and have access to all AALS benefits.
To join AALS or to volunteer
email aals@unitedwayshr.org or call 757.853.8500 x146.
Executive Council
Donna Speller-Turner
AALS Chair, Advantage Business Strategies, Inc.
Ursula Giles
Events Chair, PRA Group
Edith White
Hampton Roads Community Action Program (HRCAP)
Melvin Jordan
AALS Vice-Chair, Norfolk Southern Corporation
Sharon Jones-Hayes
Membership Chair, Sentara Healthcare
Ron Young
Dominion Enterprises (Ret.)
Gina Owens
AALS Immediate Past Chair, TowneBank
Sanyika Evans
Anthem
Kevin Otey
Volunteer Chair, Hampton Roads Community Action Program (HRCAP)
Michelle Sanderson
Caplan Law Group
Recent News
United Way, Norfolk Southern present books, supplies to Norfolk students
Employees of Norfolk Southern and United Way spent the morning of Jan. 26 loading up two trucks for an important delivery. At-risk students at four Norfolk elementary schools were about to receive 1,200 new books and 500 backpacks. The four schools are affiliated with...
