Our foundation is deeply embedded in the St. Louis community. In 1994, Dr. Donald Suggs, publisher of The St. Louis American, recognized that Black leaders needed a voice in the philanthropic community in St. Louis. In turn, he founded the Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society (CCS), which has since grown into one of the leading philanthropic programs for Black leaders and is used as a model by United Ways across the country.
A United Community
It’s part of the CCS culture that to whom much is given, much is expected. Our members are a community of individuals who make it their mission to be “a hand up” to others. Our Society focuses on fostering the next generation of Black leaders, all while helping to make an impact in the St. Louis region.
A Continued Legacy
Charmaine Chapman was the first woman and first person of color to head United Way of Greater St. Louis as its president and chief executive officer. She led the organization to some of its greatest fundraising successes during her tenure. As our Society’s namesake, we continue to honor her dream of building a better community and her passion for helping people. Learn about our history.
Your Dollars at Work
provides a month’s supply of diapers for 75 toddlers
provides a two-week hotel stay for a domestic violence victim needing immediate shelter
supplies five homebound seniors hot meals for six months
Ready to Join?
A gift of $1,000 or greater gives you access to join one or more Leadership Giving Societies and helps people in the St. Louis region live their best possible lives.
Step-Up to the Next Level
Are you seeking to take the next step in your charitable giving journey? There are several ways to incrementally increase your giving level over a few years while immediately unlocking benefits through our Leadership Giving and de Tocqueville Societies.
We would be delighted to assist you in achieving your philanthropic objectives through our Step-Up Programs. To learn more, please contact our team at leadershipgiving@unitedwaystl.org or (314) 539-4065.
Divine 9 Challenge
The Charmaine Chapman Society hosts an annual friendly fundraising competition that brings local Divine 9 Sororities and Fraternities together to make an impact in our community. Learn more.
Arica Harris, Edward Jones, 2024 Co-Chair
Steven Harris, Rubin Brown, 2024 Co-Chair
Christina Dancy, U.S. Bank
Kenyatta Holmes, Mastercard
Kesha Kent, Husch Blackwell LLP
Chalana Scales-Ferguson, Washington University in St. Louis
2022-2023: Adrian and Vernon Bracy
2020-2021: Mark and Vivian Darrell
2018-2019: Drs. Rick and Anita White
2016-2017: Keith Williamson and Ann Marr
2014-2015: Reuben and D’Anne Shelton
2012-2013: Brenda and Maurice Newberry
2010-2011: Richard Mark
2009: Michael and Gail Holmes
2007-2008: Lawrence E. Thomas and Deborah J. Patterson
2006: Lawrence E. Thomas
2004-2005: Johnny and Minga Furr
2002-2003: Arnold W. and Hazel Donald
2000-2001: David L. and Thelma E. Steward
1998-1999: John E. and Barbara S. Jacob
1997: Wayman F. Smith III
1996: David B. Price
1994-1995: Wayman F. Smith III