The Whitney M. Young Society honors outstanding donors giving $500 to over $5,000 in support of our programs and services.
Invest in creating equity in Advocacy, Education, Health, Housing, Workforce, and more by becoming a member of our Whitney M. Young Society. Named after the civil rights legend and former President/CEO of the National Urban League, Young built bridges of opportunity.
The WMY Society offers you a chance to:
- Contribute to the Urban League's mission of promoting economic justice and empowering Black communities across Oregon and SW Washington.
- Share experiences and build relationships with others that support our mission.
- Access VIP events like live sports, concerts, and more throughout the year, including the annual reception.
Choose Your Giving Level
Choose from the following annual giving levels to join the Whitney M. Young 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 will honor members of the Whitney M. Young Society with an exclusive reception. Join today to learn more!
Who was Whitney M. Young?
Whitney M. Young was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. Born in 1921, Young dedicated his life to fighting racial discrimination and advocating for equality. As the President and CEO of the National Urban League from 1961 until his untimely death in 1971, Young played a pivotal role in advancing the rights of Black Americans, working tirelessly to promote economic empowerment, access to education, and equal employment opportunities.
He was known for his pragmatic approach, advocating for collaboration between government, businesses, and civil rights organizations to bring about meaningful change. Under Young’s leadership at the National Urban League, the agency grew from 60 to 98 chapters. Young's legacy continues to inspire activists today and his contributions to the movement remain invaluable.
