Our
Programs
Advocacy
The Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (MWUL) drives community empowerment through programs that advance equity, leadership, and justice. Our advocacy work — including the James H. Gilliam, Sr. Fellowship, RiseUP!, and Food Justice initiatives — equips individuals to lead meaningful change across Delaware.
Now approaching its third year, the RiseUP! Program empowers justice-involved individuals impacted by systemic racism through advocacy, financial literacy, digital skills, and public speaking training. In partnership with Group Violence Intervention (GVI), the program has achieved a 92% non-recidivism rate and supported job placements that foster successful re-entry.
The Gilliam Fellowship develops emerging civic leaders through mentorship and community action, while Food Justice efforts address health disparities and expand access to nutritious food in underserved neighborhoods.
Together, these initiatives embody MWUL’s commitment to advocacy in action — empowering people, amplifying voices, and driving lasting change.
“We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes.”
-Ella Baker
“Stretch your mind and Fly”
– Whitney M. Young
Education
At the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (MWUL), we believe that education is the foundation for equity, empowerment, and lifelong success. Our signature youth initiative, Project Ready, equips students with the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive academically, socially, and professionally.
Since 2006, Project Ready has served more than 100 Wilmington-area students each year, providing mentorship, college and career readiness training, leadership development, and civic engagement opportunities.
For the 2024–2025 program year, Project Ready continues to focus on:
- Academic Achievement: Building study skills, goal-setting habits, and academic confidence.
- Career Readiness: Exposure to workforce pathways, financial literacy, and professional development.
- Leadership & Service: Encouraging students to lead with purpose through community engagement and advocacy.
The impact of Project Ready begins in the classroom but extends far beyond — helping students find their voice, pursue their passions, and prepare for success in college, the military, or the workforce. Together, we’re shaping futures and closing the opportunity gap, one student at a time.
Housing
In 2024, the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (MWUL) partnered with the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) to expand access to housing stability through the DEHAP and Housing Resource Partner Program.
Through this initiative, MWUL engaged more than 500 community members via calls, walk-ins, and outreach events — providing rental assistance to 57 clients to prevent eviction and connecting 49 individuals to financial literacy, résumé-building, and legal support resources.
These efforts strengthen housing stability, promote economic security, and reflect MWUL’s ongoing commitment to helping Delaware residents achieve safe, sustainable living.
“I believe people get their roots down when they own their own houses … take pride in them. That, in turn, is good for the whole city.“
– Dorothy Mae Richardson
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it’s faced.”
– James Baldwin
Leadership
The James H. Gilliam, Sr. Fellowship is a program where diverse leadership converge to work collaboratively in communities, while building their capacity as policy makers, advocates, and community organizers.
During this 6 month immersive fellowship our Fellows gain a knowledge and experience in policy research, coalition building, and learn to navigate Delaware’s political and economic arenas from a host of legislators, community advocates, and business leaders across the state.