Institute for African American Leadership Records

Collection

Identifier: ARL20

Staff Only

Content Description

The Institute for African American Leadership papers span the years 1994 to 2010. The papers comprise correspondence, event literature, photographs, newspaper clippings, articles and publications that record the organization’s programs and activities.

Dates

1994-2010

Creator

African American Leadership Institute Records (Denver, Colo.) (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research.

Copyright

All requests for permission to publish, reproduce, or quote from material in the collection should be discussed with the appropriate librarian or archivist. Permission for publication may be given on behalf of the Denver Public Library as the owner of the physical item. It is not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which also must be obtained by the customer. The Library does not assume any responsibility for infringement of copyright or publication rights of the manuscript held by the writer, heirs, donors, or executors. Reproduction restrictions are decided on a case-by-case basis.

Biographical / Historical

The Institute for African American Leadership (IAAL) is a program for African American youth in the Boulder Valley of Colorado. It is a non-profit organization that serves the unique needs of our youth by providing social, economic, education, spiritual and emotional support. The Institute was founded in 1994 as a project of the United Black Women of Boulder Valley (UBWBV). The UBWBV promotes the educational, economic, political and social welfare of African Americans in Boulder County. The program provides a repertoire of experiences and information that enhance youth in making life choices: developing leadership skills, building community, enhancing personal growth and self-esteem and encouraging academic excellence. The Institute for African American Leadership helps diminish that isolation and creates a safe haven for local black youths ages 10 to 18. It provides a place where they can connect with others who share their experience. (It is) where they learn about their cultural heritage. (It is) where they find role models and mentors committed to promoting academic excellence, strengthening black youths’ cultural identity, and developing young African Americans’ leadership skills. The IAAL fosters unity and strength within the African American community. It links generations. Bimonthly meetings and workshops often feature African American adults sharing their professions, skills, and resources. Sometimes the agenda includes artists’ demonstrations or trips to local dance and theater performances. Spring Break brings the opportunity for a national tour of black colleges.