African American Leadership Initiative
History of the African American Leadership Initiative
The African American Leadership Initiative (AALI) was created in 1999 to encourage philanthropy in the African American Community. Triangle United Way chose Durham County as it’s pilot for this program. Under the direction and leadership of Mr. Richard “Stick” Williams of Duke Energy and 1999 Durham County United Way Campaign Chair, a local committee was formed.
This volunteer committee became the founding members of the William and Josephine Clement Society by taking an active role in establishing goals and objectives and contributing $500 to the campaign. William and Josephine Clement were chosen because they served as a stellar example of the African American legacy of caring and compassion. They were mentors, leaders, and trailblazers as they championed civil rights issues and school integration issues in Durham and across North Carolina. It was only fitting that we named this initiative The William and Josephine Clement Society.
The committee’s goal was to increase community awareness, volunteer involvement, and donor support of the Triangle United Way through a more personalized approach to education and solicitation. In its collective wisdom, the committee realized that a higher level of awareness and fund-raising could be accomplished by focusing on our diverse Triangle labor force. Therefore, AALI efforts grew to include Wake and Orange Counties for future involvement.
The initiative has increased visibility and recognition for African-American donors who support Triangle United Way.
Since 1999, the AALI has contiued to have effective leadership from our founding chairperson who paved the way for future growth. Today AALI has grown to include 100 members and increased the minimum amount required of its members to $1,200.