The Whitney M. Young Jr. Giving Society honors
outstanding Urban League donors
Invest in creating equity in Advocacy, Education, Health, Housing, Workforce, and more by becoming a member of our Whitney M. Young Jr. Giving Society (WMY). Named after the civil rights legend and former President/CEO of the National Urban League, Young fought for systematic change and built bridges of opportunity across all sectors of American society. By joining WMY, you will:
- Advance Economic Justice: Play a pivotal role in supporting our work to uplift Black communities and champion economic equity across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
- Build Community: Connect with like-minded contributors, share experiences, and form meaningful relationships with others who are dedicated to our mission.
- Enjoy Exclusive Experiences: Receive invitations to VIP events throughout the year—including live sports, concerts, and our annual donor reception—to celebrate your impact and commitment.
Choose Your Giving Level
Choose from the following annual giving levels to join the Whitney M. Young Jr. Giving Society. Both annual and monthly gifts are accepted at each level.
Pillar Giving Level: $500 annually, or $42 per month
Founder Giving Level: $1,000 annually, or $84 per month
Heritage Giving Level: $2,500 annually, or $209 per month
Legacy Membership Level: $5,000 annually, or $417 per month
Annual Reception
Each year, the Urban League of Portland honors members of the Whitney M. Young Jr. Giving Society with an exclusive reception. Join today to learn more!
Who was Whitney M. Young Jr.?
Whitney M. Young Jr. was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. Born in 1921, he was a leader in the civil rights movement who fought for social justice, including employment equality, and economic development across many fields. From NASA to the Boy Scouts of America, from architecture to engineering he worked to ensure that Black Americans had access to the education and careers in various sectors.
A social worker by trade, he advised Presidents, marched with Dr. King, and served as the National Urban League’s President and CEO from 1961 until his untimely death in 1971.
He was known for his pragmatic approach, advocating for collaboration between government, businesses, and civil rights organizations to bring about meaningful change. Young's legacy continues to inspire activists today and his contributions to the movement remain invaluable.
