AKRON COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER & URBAN LEAGUE

The Akron Urban League (AUL) celebrated 100 years of service to the residents of Akron and Summit County in 2025. The AUL offers a host of centrally located, easily accessible, and low-to-no cost educationally and economically transformational programs for underserved and under-resourced populations residing in our service area.

All AUL programs and services utilize education, as both the tool and foundation, to help participants achieve personal empowerment. Whether an individual is currently enrolled in an academic program, starting or expanding a business, or simply seeking an improved and better way of life, the AUL helps increase their success through education, entrepreneurship, and workforce development programs.

AUL's pillars of focus include:
Advocacy: The Akron Urban League recognizes the profound impact that race, gender, and socioeconomic status have on an individual’s ability to thrive. As trusted local advocates, we work to challenge inequitable systems and advance meaningful change, guided by the belief that “We, the People” must truly include everyone. Our programs are intentionally designed to level the playing field for disadvantaged, marginalized, and historically overlooked residents of Summit County.

Education: AUL’s education initiatives support K–12 students and their families by fostering academic growth, leadership, and opportunity. The Summer Enrichment Camp engages students in hands-on STEAM learning through creative activities, recreation, and field trips. Our Scholars Academy promotes academic excellence through college preparation, digital literacy, and networking opportunities, while the Young Adult Council cultivates leadership, volunteerism, and civic engagement. Additionally, the Annual Scholarship Program helps students access critical resources to achieve their educational aspirations.

Health Equity: AUL is committed to ensuring that every individual has a fair opportunity to achieve optimal health. Building on efforts such as the COVID-19 All-In Project, our work continues to address social determinants of health by confronting barriers related to poverty, inequities in employment, education, healthcare access, and safe living environments.

Entrepreneur Empowerment Center: In collaboration with the Western Reserve Community Fund, the Entrepreneur Empowerment Center provides underserved women, LGBTQ individuals, veterans, and persons with disabilities in Akron and Summit County with access to capital and technical assistance, helping entrepreneurs grow sustainable and successful businesses.

Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC): The MBAC supports disadvantaged small business owners, entrepreneurs, and emerging enterprises in Summit County. Services include business management counseling, accounting assistance, certification support, contract procurement guidance, estimating and bidding assistance, marketing development, loan packaging, and referrals to financial resources that promote long-term market success.

Workforce Development: AUL’s Workforce Development programs support adults age 18 and older in preparing for, securing, and advancing in employment, with a focus on individuals who are underserved or under-resourced, including those impacted by the criminal justice system or receiving public assistance. Services include job readiness coaching, placement and mentorship, digital literacy training, and financial support for barrier removal and micro-grants for in-demand certification programs across Northeast Ohio.

Youth Development and Violence Prevention: AUL also serves youth ages 13 to 17 through violence prevention and after-school programming that emphasizes mental health, conflict resolution, mentorship, and intervention. Participants gain exposure to diverse career paths and industries through real-world experiences, empowering them to make informed and confident decisions about their futures.