SEATTLE (June 29, 2021) – On June 10, 2021, Amazon announced a $100k contribution to the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle (ULMS) in support of the organizations essential work to serve and empower Black communities in King County.
This donation is part of a total of $1 million that Amazon is contributing to 13 different Black organizations in Seattle, with a focus on the Central District. These organizations are active on issues like equity and social justice, youth development, arts and culture, upskilling and workforce, and sustainability.
“Our goal is to invest the money in support of essential ULMS services and programming that will provide Black youth and residents with employable training and professional development skills to enter the workforce amidst a pandemic.” said Michelle Merriweather, President & CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle.
Organizations selected to receive the funds include: Byrd Barr Place, Clean Greens Farm and Market, Spectrum Dance Theater, Northwest African American Museum, BCC Community Development Services, Tabor 100, Mentoring Urban Students and Teens, Brothers United in Leadership Development, Keep Music Live, Capitol Hill Ecodistrict, Central Area Youth Association, and the Technology Access Foundation.
These funds will allow these organizations to continue their support for vital programs that support youth of color in their education and recreational activities, build community connections and the arts, provide food assistance, and assist small businesses.
“We are pleased that we can help the outstanding organizations that are providing such important assistance in the Central District and throughout Seattle.” said Taylor Hoang, Senior Manager, External Affairs at Amazon. “Their work has been even more important during the Covid-19 pandemic as more people have needed assistance. Amazon is committed to working side-by-side with community partners to address inequity and support crucial local initiatives.”
The Amazon Black Employee Network is excited to support these worthy organizations in Seattle,” said Amazon Black Employee Network President, Anthony Cole. “It is important that we aid our local communities as we emerge from the pandemic. These donations will benefit the Seattle BIPOC community and create opportunities for individuals in Amazon’s hometown.”
About the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle:
With a vision of equity for all, the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle (ULMS) empowers those we serve by providing programming and services designed to support and encourage self-sufficiency in all aspects of life. Our five areas of focus include advocacy & civic engagement, education, housing, public health and workforce development.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 29, 2021
CONTACT: Ashley Pugh; Director of Communication & External Affairs, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, (206) 348 0413 (work cell); apugh@urbanleague.org