Urban League of Hampton Roads

Empowering Communities. Changing Lives.

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AFRICAN AMERICAN POPULATION IN HAMPTON ROADS

About Us

Since 1978, the Urban League of Hampton Roads has been a beacon of opportunity, championing economic self-reliance, social justice, and civil rights for African Americans and underserved communities. Our mission is to break down systemic barriers and build pathways to prosperity through education, employment, health, and housing.

We go beyond offering services—we ignite change. Through advocacy, research, policy analysis, and community mobilization, we work to dismantle racial wealth disparities and foster a future where equity and inclusion are the foundation of every opportunity.

Together, we can create a stronger, more just Hampton Roads. Join us in the movement to empower individuals, uplift families, and transform communities.

Discover how you can get involved today or find services to support your needs.

We provide community programs that deliver empowerment and equality.

Mindful Nutrition

Join us for Urban Wellness: Mindful Nutrition, a 4-week class series focused on the connection between mental health and food wellness. This interactive program includes cooking demonstrations, gardening tips, and discussions on tackling food insecurity. We recently expanded beyond Portsmouth to support families across the Hampton Roads region and have two sessions left for registration!

Good Jobs Challenge

Waves of Opportunity

To diversify the maritime supply chain, the Urban League of Hampton Roads will connect minority-owned businesses with resources to become suppliers in this sector. Through the Waves of Opportunity accelerator and partnerships, we aim to create pathways for diverse businesses in Hampton Roads to support and thrive in maritime industries.

PROJECT READY

A signature pillar program for the National Urban League, students from Hampton Roads will participate in a year-round program filled with academic, cultural and career exploration activities.

Project Ready will be Co-Chaired by Co-Stars from ‘A Different World’ – Charnele Brown and Darryl Bell. A program that featured young African Americans college students at a Historically Black College & University, Charnele and Darryl are advocates of youth and will participate in special workshops throughout the year.

Project Ready

Project Ready Partners

Next Steps to Success

Upcoming Events

Housing Workshop
Mar
26

Housing Workshop

Recent News

Mother Blessing Way Baby Shower: Celebrating Mothers & Strengthening Community

On March 15, 2025, we gathered at Serenity’s Oasis in Portsmouth, VA, for the Mother Blessing Way Baby Shower—an event created to uplift, educate, and support new and expecting mothers.

Project Ready College Tours: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scholars

The Urban League of Hampton Roads’ Project Ready Program is committed to preparing students for success by providing firsthand exposure to higher education opportunities. Recently, students from Heritage High School and Bayside High School embarked on transformative college tours, immersing themselves in academic programs, campus life, and admissions pathways.

Empowering Educators: A Look Back at the Teacher Re-Supply Drive

On March 1, 2025, the Urban League of Hampton Roads had the privilege of giving back. The Teacher Re-Supply Drive, hosted at Hampton High School by our Education team, welcomed 60 local educators from Newport News to Virginia Beach, ensuring they had access to essential classroom materials—free of charge.

ULHR Salute to Community Leaders Making a Difference

Across Virginia, Black professionals are making history—not just in boardrooms and classrooms, but in every space where leadership is needed. The recent recognition of Black leaders by Virginia Business Magazine is more than an individual honor; it is a testament to the strength, resilience, and excellence that define our communities.
ULHR-Inaugural-Impact-Report

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