The Florida Lottery Grants $25,000 to Urban League for Youth Education and Development Programs
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Alica Brown
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The Florida Lottery Grants $25,000 to Urban League for Youth Education and Development Programs
For immediate release
FORT LAUDERDALE –– (June 30, 2023) The Urban League of Broward County is proud to announce that it has received a generous grant of $25,000 from The Florida Lottery to support its Annual College Decision Day. This special event brought together more than 100 residents to celebrate the achievements of high school seniors as they unveiled their plans to pursue higher education at colleges or universities after graduation.
Held at the Urban League’s Community Empowerment Center in Fort Lauderdale, the event resembled the spirit of National Signing Day in college football. Adding to the excitement, the Urban League’s dedicated volunteer auxiliary, Young Professionals Network, raised $5,000 and awarded scholarship to three outstanding students. In addition to the scholarships, each student received brand new laptops during the event.
The Annual College Decision Day was presented by The Florida Lottery, in collaboration with valued partners Broward College, Nova Southeastern University, and Office Depot. The occasion not only celebrates the Urban League’s impactful educational programs but also acknowledges their dedication to empowering low-income youth for future success in higher education, trade schools, military, and successful careers. The organization’s College Access programs prioritize academic and cultural achievements, leadership development and aim to reduce risky behaviors associated with substance abuse and delinquency. Among the notable programs are the National Achievers Society, College Tour, Asset Building Leaders to Excellence and STEM Ready.
In addition to the celebration, the Urban League of Broward County is thrilled to recognize The Florida Lottery for its unwavering support of the organization’s Community Justice Division including youth diversion programming. “We truly value our partnership with The Florida Lottery,” said Germaine Smith-Baugh, Ed.D, president and CEO for the Urban League of Broward County. "Together, we share a commitment to uplifting and empowering youth to unlock their utmost potential.”
Among the college graduates, more than a third will be attending Broward College, with others heading to Florida State University, University Central Florida, Florida International, Lynn University, Hampton University and University of Chicago.
About the Urban League of Broward County
The Urban League of Broward County is a not-for-profit organization founded to empower communities and change lives. Its mission is to enable African Americans and others in historically underserved communities secure economic self-reliance, parity, power, and civil rights. The Urban League’s ADVANCE programs uplift nearly 14,000 people every year through affordable housing initiatives, youth development and diversion, employment and training, entrepreneurship, health, and civic engagement. Learn more about the Urban League of Broward County by visiting www.ulbroward.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.