African American Leadership Council

The Diversity Council of United Way of Anderson County began in February 2006 as an idea of JT Boseman, Michael Cunningham and Juana Slade. These three United Way volunteers decided that a movement needed to take place to get more African Americans involved in philanthropic, civic and board activities in Anderson County.

During this time, United Way of Anderson County was in the process of formulating its Community Impact Agenda, a new approach to United Way operations. The Community Impact Agenda is a road map for Anderson on how to meet its most urgent needs and how to connect area strengths and assets with opportunities to improve our community in a measurable way.

Thus, "the movement within the movement" was begun.

The first Diversity Council lunch meeting was held at the United Way of Anderson County office in May 2006. Discussion items included: an overview of the United Way of Anderson County's proposed transition to Community Impact; opportunities for involvement in the transition process; and the proposal of a Community Service Day honoring slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

On September 8, 2006, it was suggested the name of the council be changed to the African American Leadership Council (AALC), and on October 6, 2006, the name change was unanimously approved.

Each year, the African American Leadership Council host its signature project "MLK DAY ON", the largest MLK Community Service project in Anderson County. The Saturday before the national MLK Holiday, the council engages hundreds of volunteers across the county in giving back to the community by performing various service projects such as renovating community centers, cleaning senior centers, landscaping parks, etc.

The council also hosts a Youth Summit in August for teens in the community. Speakers are on hand to discuss timely topics with the youth of the community to instruct them how to make good decisions in life.

Mission Statement
To cultivate leadership in the African American community to ensure a diverse voice in efforts that address community needs.

Core Strategies
Identify, recruit and cultivate African Americans who represent our current and future leadership for our community.

Foster future leadership among African American youth and engage youth in our community efforts.
Develop efforts to mentor youth in middle and high school.
Further engage youth in community activities and leadership opportunities.
Educate youth on community need and opportunities to address and be engaged.

Engage African American leadership in select community projects - (i.e. MLK DAY ON signature event).
Involve AALC leadership in a range of other community efforts and boards.
Select projects to participate in or lead.
Coordinate participation.
Survey/assess existing community boards and efforts that provide opportunities for involvement.
Survey/assess African American representation on identified boards and efforts. Identify gaps.
Match leadership skills with participation/involvement opportunities.

Educate members on community issues, resources, and opportunities for involvement in all community efforts.
Identify potential community leadership development education/training needs and facilitate education opportunities for AALC members and other emerging African Americans in the community.
Motivate AALC members and the African American community to be involved.