Urban League of Springfield

The Urban League of Springfield advocates for racial equity, civil rights, and economic self-reliance on behalf of African American residents and underserved communities across Greater Springfield and Western Massachusetts. Established in 1913, the historic affiliate delivers comprehensive social services and advocacy programs organized across four essential community pillars: learning and education, health and wellness, wealth access, and active civic engagement throughout the region.

Youth programming centers on Project Ready, a signature national initiative designed to prepare secondary school students in grades eight through 12 for post-secondary education and rewarding career pathways. Through one-on-one academic tutoring, college campus tours, leadership development workshops, and individualized college roadmaps, the program equips young scholars with the academic skills and personal confidence required for collegiate and career success. The organization also operates the Digital Learning Lab, providing community members of all generations with foundational computer literacy instruction, specialized workplace software training, and essential broadband access to bridge persistent regional technology gaps.

Seniors remain deeply connected to community life through the Foster Grandparent Program, which pairs older adult volunteers with young children in local public schools, day care centers, and Head Start classrooms for intergenerational mentoring and literacy support. Economic development initiatives provide small business technical assistance, financial coaching, and employment search guidance in partnership with regional workforce organizations. Community members can access services by contacting the Springfield center or participating in scheduled educational workshops.