Dear Friend, Did you know that even before COVID-19, the rate of unemployment among Black Americans was nearly twice the rate of unemployment among white Americans? The pandemic disproportionately impacted Black and brown communities, causing further economic distress. That’s why, here at the National Urban League, we take our role as economic first responders seriously. Our affiliates in 36 states and the District of Columbia are on the ground right now offering vital services that are always free of charge. We can only offer these services thanks to the generosity of friends like you. Please confirm your donor status by making your first gift today.  Your gift means a great deal to hardworking people like Jermaine. He dedicated himself to the service of our country in the Marine Corps—and when he attempted to help someone beyond the line of fire, he was shot in the stomach. With a long recovery ahead, he despaired that he may never achieve his dream of becoming an engineer. But with a tenacious spirit, he recovered from his injury, went back to college, and graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. Still, he could not find a job. With a wife and two young children, he needed help fast. Enter the Houston Area Urban League, one of our 90 affiliates. The chapter was delighted to assist Jermaine. He felt his confidence grow as our team helped him rework his resume, take a financial literacy course, and work towards a certification in construction. Fast forward and today Jermaine achieved his dream—he is working as a mechanical engineer and making a good salary! So please show your support to all the economic first responders at the National Urban League by donating today. Your generosity is deeply appreciated. We promise to put your donation to excellent use fighting for economic justice and equity—including in housing, healthcare, education, and more. We will keep fighting for internet access and technical training for individuals in underserved communities, and for desperately needed police reforms through the National Urban League’s 21 Pillars for Redefining Public Safety and Restoring Community Trust. Thank you for being part of our community of advocacy, support, and change. With gratitude,  Marc H. Morial
President and Chief Executive Officer | 
