Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society

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. The Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society (CCS) has grown into the No. 1 philanthropic program for Black leaders in the nation.

By answering the call to help their neighbors in need, CCS members make a difference every day throughout our region.

Picture of the the Bracys — **2022 Co-Chairs**
Adrian Bracy, Steward Family Trust
Vernon Bracy, RVC Solutions

MEMBER BENEFITS

Your investment directly improves the lives of thousands of local people. As a Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society member, you’ll:

SEE

firsthand how your investment helps local people

GAIN

new skills and build your reputation

MEET

and connect with likeminded community leaders

SUPPORT

organizations working to create an equitable region

GAIN

new business and career opportunities by demonstrating community leadership

A CULTURE OF CARING

Our Society embodies a culture of caring and giving. We empower our members to lift up one another and answer the call to make St. Louis a better place to live for everyone. It’s a part of our culture that to whom much is given, much is expected.

A UNITED COMMUNITY

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 Black woman to head United Way of Greater St. Louis as its president and chief executive officer. During her tenure, she led the organization to some of its greatest fundraising successes. 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 matter

$1,000

provides inhalers for 100 children with asthma

$2,000

provides emergency assistance for 5 families during a crisis

$5,000

provides job skills and training courses for 50 unemployed people to gain full-time employment

Member Criteria

Open to Black leaders who support Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society's mission and make an annual pledge of $1,000 or more to United Way of Greater St. Louis.

Learn More

READY TO JOIN?

The annual membership commitment for the Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society is a $1,000 donation to help people in the St. Louis region live their best possible lives.

Join Today