SPECIAL
EVENTS
The Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts hosts special events designed to inspire, engage, and connect with our community. Each event is thoughtfully curated to bring fresh, meaningful experiences that resonate with our audience, fostering growth, collaboration, and lasting impact. Join us for unique gatherings that celebrate our mission and bring people together in powerful ways.
2026 Annual Gala - An Evening Not to Be Missed
May 9, 2026
​Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts Annual Gala, themed Leading with Purpose, Lifting with Power — a celebration of leadership, impact, and the collective power to uplift our communities.
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Set against the iconic backdrop of the G-P Atrium at Gillette Stadium, this black-tie affair brings together civic, corporate, philanthropic, and community leaders for an evening that blends elegance with purpose. From the energy of the reception to the inspiration of the program and the excitement of the after-party, the night is thoughtfully designed to connect, celebrate, and move our mission forward. Seating is limited, and early confirmation is encouraged.
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Host Committee
The 2026 Annual Gala is strengthened by the leadership of our Host Committee Chairs and Members—individuals who lead with purpose, give generously, and help bring the right people into the room to advance the mission of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts.
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We are deeply grateful for their partnership and commitment. List in formation.
Martin J. Walsh, Co-Chair, Former U.S. Labor Secretary and Mayor of Boston
Turahn Dorsey, Co-Chair, President and CEO of Eastern Bank Foundation
Sean Curran
Mark Donegan
Josh Kraft
Sandy Lish
Vin Loporchio
Travis McCready
Aisha Miller, Ph.D.
Thomas O’Brien
George A. Russell, Jr.
Darryl Settles
Marie St. Fleur, Esq.
Richard L. Taylor
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Honoring Leadership & Impact
We are proud to recognize exceptional leaders whose work reflects ULEM’s mission and legacy:
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Wendell Knox
Lee F. Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award -
Quincy Miller
Robert Treat Paine, Jr. Chairperson’s Award -
Jenaya Pina-Nelson
Joan Wallace Benjamin Leadership Award -
Darlene Lombos
Melvin H. King Community Leadership Award -
Renee Dozier
Rising Star Award
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Each honoree embodies leadership rooted in purpose and a commitment to expanding opportunity for individuals, families, and communities.
For sponsorship and ticket information, click here.​​
15th Annual Jobs Rebuild Boston Community Conference and Career Fair
June 4, 2026
This gathering brings ULEM’s mission to life by connecting individuals to opportunity and empowering pathways to economic mobility. Through onsite interviews, hands-on workshops in résumé building, job searching, and interview readiness, and a dedicated HR Luncheon for employers committed to inclusive hiring, the day is designed to spark connection, confidence, and possibility. Early confirmation is encouraged. For sponsorship and ticket information, click here.
3rd Annual Women's Empowerment Breakfast
Fall 2026
​This annual gathering brings together community leaders, supporters, and partners to celebrate the power, leadership, and impact of women who are shaping our communities. The program will feature an awards presentation and an intimate conversation highlighting women whose leadership, influence, and commitment to equity inspire progress and possibility. Together, we honor achievements, share stories, and reaffirm our collective role in advancing opportunity for women and families across our region.
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Event date to be announced soon.
Annual Turkey Drive and Giveaway
October-November 2026
This annual community initiative brings together donors, volunteers, and partners to ensure families have what they need to gather with dignity during the Thanksgiving season. Each fall, ULEM mobilizes support through donations and volunteer engagement throughout October and November, culminating in a Turkey Giveaway held the weekend prior to Thanksgiving.
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Through this collective effort, we provide essential holiday resources to families while strengthening community connection and care during a time when support matters most. Additional details on how to give, volunteer, and participate will be shared soon. Please check back for updates.
Annual Toy Drive and Giveaway
December 2026
This annual community initiative brings together donors, volunteers, and partners to help make the holiday season brighter for children and families across our community. Each year, ULEM mobilizes support through toy donations and volunteer engagement in the weeks leading up to the holidays, culminating in a Toy Giveaway that ensures children receive gifts with joy and dignity.
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Through this collective effort, we spread hope, create moments of celebration, and strengthen community connection during a season of giving. Additional details on how to give, volunteer, and participate will be shared soon.
Please check back for updates.
ULEM Annual Meeting
January 2027
This annual gathering brings together members, partners, and the broader community to reflect on ULEM’s impact over the past year and to look ahead with purpose. The program will highlight key accomplishments, share insights on our work advancing opportunity and equity, and include a keynote address that inspires continued collective action.
The meeting also provides space for member engagement and governance, offering transparency and connection as we align around priorities for the year ahead. We invite you to join us as we celebrate progress, strengthen accountability, and reaffirm our shared commitment to building stronger communities. Event date to be announced soon.