The Urban League of Essex County is an organization of talented professionals, caring volunteers, and engaged trustees dedicated to improving the lives of under resorced residents throughout Essex County, New Jersey.

Since our founding in 1917, our mission has been to help African Americans and under resourced residents achieve economic and social advancement.  We offer relevant programs and services in education, employment, housing, and economic development that empower communities and change lives.

Through the generous support of our funders, partners, members and volunteers, The League has touched the lives of thousands of individuals and families – putting them on the path to better opportunities, financial stability, home ownership and their own dream.

Women in Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program - Facilitated by the FOC 

Financial stability empowers families and builds stronger communities.

It is essential that individuals and families be able to make informed financial decisions to weather trying economic times and to plan for the future.

The Urban League of Essex County has been providing financial capability education and coaching to individuals and families for more than five years. The goal of ULEC’s financial capability program is to provide fundamental knowledge of financial staples such as best practices, credit-building initiatives, saving incentive programs, debt management and promote economic stability among the low-to-moderate income households. Financial coaches facilitate this process through workshops, seminars and one-on-one individualized client-driven sessions.

The Financial Opportunity Center has helped over 500 participants create financial goals, build better banking habits, increase net worth, establish and build credit knowledge and scores in preparation for retirement. Participants of financial literacy classes build portfolios rich with goals and priorities for building their futures. To date, more than 4,000 residents and 800 students have received this invaluable training.