GPUL Hosts 61st Whitney M. Young, Jr Awards Dinner
The Greater Phoenix Urban League, under the leadership of its President and CEO George H. Dean, hosted its’ 61st Annual Whitney M. Young Jr. Awards Dinner. The event was held at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in Scottsdale on Friday, November 14, and the theme for the event was, “EMPOWERING A LEGACY OF COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABILITY.”
Mr. Dean and GPUL Board Chairperson Sherry McFadden shared important information about the work that the organization is doing in the valley and presented special recognition/awards to those organizations and individuals who are making a difference daily.
The WMY Jr Community Award was presented to Dress for Success Arizona who provides each client with professional attire to secure employment. However, it is about much more than simply a new outfit. In addition to equipping the clients with apparel and accessories, it also focuses on extensive job readiness and career training.
The WMY Jr Corporate Award was presented to JP Morgan Chase for its continued support to organizations, families and individual throughout Arizona and the greater Phoenix community.
The WMY Jr Individual Award was presented to the Rev. Dr. Benjamin N. Thomas Sr. Pastor and Senior Minister, Tanner Chapel AME Church. Pastor Thomas was honored for his over 34 years of dedicated service to his community and his constituents. Dr. Thomas humbly expressed his appreciation on being recognized by the GPUL and will continue to put in good work towards making a difference in the lives of the people we serve by “Lifting Them Up”.
Other highlights of the event included the hosting of a first time auction. Fund the Movement for the organization was conducted by Ms. Subyn Novelle who served as the auctioneer. A number of special trip packages and hotel stays helped the event generate over $50,000 in less than thirty minutes.
Ms. Danielle Campbell, President of the GPUL Young Professionals provided information about the work that the organization is doing and recognized all of its members in the audience.
Dr. Teresa Malcolm served as Mistress of Ceremonies and Rev. Ty Jones, Pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church provided opening and closing prayers.
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