Winston-Salem Urban League

Winston-Salem Urban League empowers African Americans and disadvantaged residents to achieve socioeconomic parity through education, training, and civic engagement. Founded in 1952, the historic organization serves Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, and surrounding counties of the Piedmont Triad. By pairing career development and senior workforce initiatives with youth enrichment and entrepreneurship resources, the agency builds bridges to financial security across multiple generations.

The agency's employment continuum addresses job seekers at distinct life stages. The Senior Community Service Employment Program provides subsidized part-time job training in non-profit and government agencies for unemployed adults ages 55 and older, equipping them with updated skills to secure unsubsidized jobs. For teenagers ages 15 to 19, the Summer Youth Employment Program delivers essential workplace readiness classes, leadership seminars, and paid summer internships. The Hire UP initiative offers adult job seekers comprehensive employment services, including personalized resume development, interview practice, and computer lab access.

Economic revitalization and community advocacy extend the agency's impact throughout Forsyth County. The Startup|URBAN initiative fosters local entrepreneurship by offering mentorship, training, and forgivable loan opportunities to small business owners in underserved neighborhoods. The organization also supports elementary education through the Read Urban literacy program, improving reading proficiency for rising third-grade students. The Winston-Salem Urban League Young Professionals auxiliary convenes emerging leaders for community service and networking. Residents access programs by applying online or visiting the 5th Street center.