Richard D. Danford Jr., President, Jacksonville Urban League Mission
The Jacksonville Urban League’s mission is to enable African Americans and others to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power and civil rights.
Serving Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Urban League was founded in 1947. We are one of 100 affiliates of the National Urban League. The National Urban League, which was founded in 1910, is celebrating 100 years of service throughout the country.
Those served
The Jacksonville Urban League’s principal service area includes Duval County and surrounding areas. In some housing counseling related cases, we provide services outside of Duval County.
Biggest challenge
My biggest challenge has been and continues to be providing the critical services of key programs such as housing counseling, employment training and youth crime prevention during this economic downturn and ensuring that all 350 employees of the Jacksonville Urban League continue to work.
Biggest satisfaction
Empowering individuals and families throughout the community and changing the lives of Jacksonville’s most vulnerable residents.
Hometown
Born and raised in Waycross, Ga.
First experience with community service
As a youngster living in Waycross, my father owned a cleaners and each of us had a specific job to do. My job was to sweep the sidewalk in front of the cleaners, and of course there was no pay. This was the beginning of giving back for me. As I grew older, there were many more opportunities that allowed me to serve. For example, I received a national appointment in 1988 to serve on the Veterans Administration’s Advisory Committee on the Readjustment of Vietnam Veterans.
Your job before the Jacksonville Urban League
My job before becoming president of the Jacksonville Urban League was working for the City of Jacksonville as Director of Equal Opportunity under both Mayor Tommy Hazouri and Mayor Ed Austin.
Upcoming events
Annual meeting and luncheon and Report to the Community, June 17, Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum.
Founders Day Celebration, Sept. 10, Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum.
Annual golf tournament, Sept. 13, Timuquana Country Club.
Annual Equal Opportunity Luncheon, Oct. 20, Hyatt.
Contact information www.Jaxul.org 356-8336