Urban League of Alabama

The Urban League of Alabama is the state's affiliate of the National Urban League, working to help underserved residents reach economic self-reliance, power and civil rights. Founded in 1967 by a group that included Dr. A.G. Gaston, Dr. Joseph E. Lowery and Arthur D. Shores, the organization, long known as the Birmingham Urban League, focuses on education, jobs, housing and health.

Its programs meet people where they are. Housing services help individuals and families find safe, affordable homes. The Workforce Development Program offers industry-aligned training, career readiness workshops and job placement for careers in healthcare, construction, information technology and advanced manufacturing. Small business support gives entrepreneurs training, resources and mentorship, and the Save Our Sons program prepares economically disadvantaged men for stable, well-paying work with job readiness training, resume building, interview preparation and employer connections.

The league also works on community violence intervention through advocacy, awareness and partnerships, and runs community service and outreach that includes a mobile food pantry for residents who face transportation barriers and neighborhood clean-up days. In July 2026 it began expanding services to Montgomery, starting with first-time homebuyer counseling, job skills training, small business support and youth and family programs.

The office is at 505 20th Street North in Birmingham. Call (205) 326-0162 or email info@ulalabama.org to ask about programs, and donate online at ulalabama.org.