As the President and CEO since 2011, Sorraya E. Sampson has been the visionary for the 100-plus-year-old civil rights organization. With more than two decades of experience in the Urban League movement, she passionately works to help disenfranchised individuals achieve social and economic self-sufficiency through workforce, health, youth, and homeless services. With a background in HIV/AIDS policy and advocacy, she champions social justice and serves on numerous boards; her impact has reached statewide and international levels. A graduate of Stony Brook University with Bachelor's degrees in Economics and the Integrated Social Sciences, along with a Master's Degree in Management and Policy.
Whether it's providing HIV/AIDS education to minority communities or helping disenfranchised individuals achieve social and economic self-sufficiency through the Urban League, my work has always been guided by a passion for creating a more just and equitable world. It's not just a job to me; it's a calling, and I wake up every day eager to make a difference in the lives of those I serve.
A look at the visionary impactful journey in driving social equality and civil rights advocacy
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Dear Friends,
Every day in Westchester, lives are changing because of the Urban League’s focus on local programs, advocacy, and critical linkages. As we step into 2025, the challenges in our community remain significant, but so do the opportunities to make a difference. For over a century, the Urban League of Westchester has been at the heart of efforts to create pathways to opportunity, and this year, we’re more determined than ever to address the needs of our neighbors.
Our programs have delivered tangible results for the people we serve this past year. From workforce development initiatives that connect individuals to meaningful careers to educational support for homeless students and harm reduction efforts that save lives daily, our work is rooted in creating tangible impact. Stories like Elijah’s remind us why this work matters.
Elijah, a 17-year-old student, came to us after surviving domestic violence and kidnapping, trauma no child should face. Struggling in school and with the law, Elijah was at a crossroads. Thanks to the support of our dedicated case manager—and the resources made possible by funders like you—he received critical advocacy, legal assistance, and emotional support. We helped ensure his safe relocation, cleared legal barriers, and provided him with the opportunity to rebuild. Today, Elijah is not only back on track academically, but he’s also mentoring his younger sister and showing what’s possible when young people are given a real chance.
As we look toward 2025, we’re doubling down on our core focus: delivering programs that meet people where they are, advocating for better policies, and providing linkages to essential resources. From expanding harm reduction services to creating more workforce training opportunities and improving access to education, our efforts are about making a direct and lasting impact here in Westchester.
At a time when division, disinformation, and disconnection dominate too much of our dialogue, our work on the ground is more vital than ever. We’re here to cut through the noise with meaningful programs that meet real needs and are rooted in trust, collaboration, and community. We remain committed to being nonpartisan but never neutral regarding justice, dignity, and opportunity.
We can’t do this alone. Your support makes it all possible. If you believe in opportunity, education, and second chances, we invite you to make a gift today. Your contribution helps fund the direct services that transform futures, just like Elijah’s.
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Thank you for standing with the Urban League of Westchester. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community for everyone.
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