7 Ways The Columbia Urban League Is Transforming Columbia, SC Life In 2025 (And CEO's 45-Year Legacy)
The Columbia Urban League (CUL) in Columbia, South Carolina, is continuing its decades-long mission to empower African Americans and other underserved communities, with a renewed focus on high-impact programs and partnerships in 2025. This year marks a significant period of growth, particularly in youth career development and pre-apprenticeship opportunities, solidifying the organization's status as a critical engine for social and economic equality in the Midlands region. The CUL’s strategy, led by its long-serving President and CEO, centers on closing the opportunity gap through education, workforce training, and community-wide initiatives that directly address systemic challenges.
Operating as a vital non-profit organization, the Columbia Urban League focuses on five core areas: education, employment, housing, health, and justice. As of late 2024 and moving into 2025, the CUL has been recognized as a "Best Practice Charity," underscoring its effective and transparent approach to community service. [cite: 3 from step 1] The organization's programs are designed to be transformative, moving individuals from economic instability to self-sufficiency through tangible skills and resources.
The Enduring Legacy of President & CEO James T. McLawhorn, Jr.
The stability and success of the Columbia Urban League are inextricably linked to the leadership of Mr. James T. McLawhorn, Jr., a nationally recognized figure in race and community relations.
- Name: James T. McLawhorn, Jr.
- Current Role: President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Columbia Urban League, Inc.
- Tenure: Serving as President and CEO since 1979.
- Career Highlight: His tenure spans over 45 years, making him one of the longest-serving and most influential leaders in the National Urban League movement.
- Recognition: Nationally recognized as a leader in race and community relations. He was named one of the "50 Most Influential" in 2022.
- Impact: Under his leadership, the Columbia Urban League has been at the forefront of the fight for social and economic equality, justice, and human dignity for African Americans and other disadvantaged citizens in the South Carolina Midlands. [cite: 5 from step 1]
Mr. McLawhorn's consistent vision has allowed the CUL to adapt to the changing needs of the Richland County community while maintaining a clear focus on its core civil rights and economic empowerment mission.
7 High-Impact Initiatives Driving Change in 2025
The Columbia Urban League’s current efforts are concentrated on several cutting-edge programs designed to prepare youth and adults for the modern workforce and address critical community needs. These initiatives represent the freshest and most impactful work the organization is undertaking.
1. The CULPA Pre-Apprenticeship Program
The Columbia Urban League's Pre-Apprenticeship (CULPA) program is a cornerstone of its workforce development efforts. This initiative specifically targets underserved youth, providing them with a direct pathway to high-demand careers.
- Focus: Providing opportunities to earn certifications through apprenticeships.
- Goal: To bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping young people with certified, marketable skills.
- Impact: CULPA is a strategic response to the local economy’s need for skilled trades and certified workers, ensuring that minority youth are not left behind in the job market.
2. CRFD Youth Empowerment Academy Partnership
In a powerful collaboration, the CUL partners with the Columbia Fire Department (CRFD) to run the Youth Empowerment Academy. This program is an excellent example of how the Urban League connects young people to civic and career opportunities.
- 2025 Growth: The Academy saw significant growth, offering two sessions in 2025 and graduating 19 teens who completed the rigorous program.
- Selection: Teens who attend the academy are selected by the Columbia Urban League, ensuring the program reaches those who can benefit most from the exposure to public service careers.
- Outcome: Participants gain invaluable experience and mentorship, exploring potential careers in fire and emergency services.
3. Saving Our Children (Formerly Saving Our Sons)
This transformative program is dedicated to helping children and young men break the cycle of juvenile justice involvement. By focusing on intervention, mentorship, and positive development, the CUL addresses one of the most pressing social justice issues in the community. The shift from "Saving Our Sons" to "Saving Our Children" reflects a broader, more inclusive approach to youth intervention. [cite: 6 from step 1]
4. Science Technology and Enrichment Program (STEP)
Recognizing the future of work lies in STEM fields, the STEP program is designed to expose students to science and technology careers. The program provides hands-on learning and career exploration.
- Method: STEP pairs students with local organizations that match their career interests.
- Benefit: It helps young participants develop and expand their career skills, making them more competitive for college and entry-level jobs. [cite: 12 from step 1]
5. College Internship Program (CIP)
For college-aged students, the CIP provides crucial professional experience. This program is vital for developing future leaders and ensuring that college graduates from the Midlands are ready to enter professional fields with practical experience. [cite: 10 from step 1]
6. Operation Safe Haven
Addressing community safety and youth vulnerability, Operation Safe Haven is a program focused on creating secure and supportive environments. The CUL facilitates the training of leaders at various sites to coordinate Safe Haven programs, providing a refuge and positive programming for youth. [cite: 9 from step 1]
7. Excellence in Education Parent Support
The CUL understands that educational success begins at home. The Excellence in Education Parent Support program empowers parents with the tools and knowledge needed to actively engage in their children's academic lives. This initiative is fundamental to improving educational outcomes and closing achievement gaps across Richland County schools. [cite: 10 from step 1]
The Columbia Urban League: A Pillar of Social and Economic Equality
The work of the Columbia Urban League extends far beyond individual programs; it is a systemic effort to promote social and economic equality for all citizens in the Columbia, SC area. For over five decades, the organization has consistently fought for justice and human dignity, serving as a critical voice for African Americans. [cite: 5 from step 1]
The CUL’s holistic approach means that an individual seeking assistance might access job training through CULPA, receive educational support through the Parent Support program, and have their child participate in the CRFD Youth Empowerment Academy. This comprehensive ecosystem of services ensures that the organization’s impact is deep and long-lasting.
The organization’s recognition as a "Best Practice Charity" for 2025 is a testament to its operational excellence and the measurable impact it has on the community. [cite: 3 from step 1] By focusing on tangible outcomes—certifications, career placements, and reduced juvenile justice involvement—the Columbia Urban League remains a vital and forward-thinking institution dedicated to the prosperity of the South Carolina Midlands.
The ongoing commitment to workforce development, youth leadership, and education ensures that the Columbia Urban League will continue to be a pillar of empowerment for decades to come, actively shaping a more equitable future for Columbia, SC.
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