Welcome to Tacoma Urban League
Programs at Tacoma Urban League
Statement from the Tacoma Urban League Board of Directors
The Tacoma Urban League Board of Directors is aware of recent community discussion and speculation regarding the organization and its leadership.
The Board takes any concern related to the integrity of our operations seriously. Consistent with our commitment to transparency and accountability, the Board has initiated a confidential, independent, legal third-party investigative review to ensure that all questions are addressed through the proper process. To protect the integrity of that review and respect all parties involved, we will not be commenting on specific details while it is underway.
During her tenure, President and CEO Desiree Wilkins-Finch has been recognized for her leadership and dedication to the organization’s mission. The Board values her service and the impact of her leadership on the organization’s growth and visibility as this independent review process proceeds.
In the meantime, the Board is providing organizational oversight to ensure that all programs, partnerships, and services continue without interruption. The Tacoma Urban League remains fully operational and steadfast in advancing its mission to empower this community through economic opportunity, education, and advocacy.
We thank our partners, supporters, and community members for their continued trust as we move forward with integrity and unity of purpose.
The Tacoma Urban League Board of Directors
For media inquiries, questions or comments, please contact:
Dana Hill PR – PR@thetacomaurbanleague.org
Welcome to the Tacoma Urban League!
We hope our website finds you well. The Tacoma Urban League board of directors has appointed Desirée Wilkins Finch as the league’s new president and CEO as of Oct. 30, 2024.
With over 15 years of experience in community organizing, organizational development and strategic planning, Wilkins Finch is well-positioned to lead the organization in advancing its mission to empower African Americans and underserved communities.
“Desirée is a natural leader with deep ties to the Tacoma community,” said LaTasha Wortham, chair of the Tacoma Urban League’s Board of Directors. “Her strategic vision, passion for equity, and dedication to social justice make her the perfect choice to carry forward the mission of the Tacoma Urban League. We are thrilled to welcome her to this role.”
This transition comes as part of the Board’s continued commitment to the stability and growth of the Tacoma Urban League. All programs and services will continue without disruption, and the organization remains focused on its key priorities: economic opportunity, educational excellence, family empowerment, and civil rights advocacy.
”I am honored to serve as the next CEO of the Tacoma Urban League, and to carry forward the leadership legacy of Thomas Dixon, and the visionary work he began in this community. It is a privilege to stand among the remarkable leaders who have come before me, and I am eager to continue building on that foundation,” said Wilkins Finch. “I have long supported the league’s mission and look forward to advancing the critical work or ensuring social equality and economic independence for Black people and underserved communities in Tacoma. This city is deeply engaged in race and social justice action, and I am excited to lead the organization in making scalable, sustainable change.”
A new chapter for Tacoma Urban League. Led by TUL President and CEO Desireé Wilkins Finch, alongside the Tacoma Urban League team, partners, dignitaries, and friends, there was a lot of love in the room as Wilkins Finch welcomed everyone. She was filled with emotion on this day – joy coupled with gratitude and hope for a prosperous future for League that she cares so much about. Read the full article online with Tacoma Weekly.
Thank you to everyone who came out to the grand reopening on Friday September 19th, 2025. We have photos online from the event for you to see.
The Tacoma Urban League was born out of the civil rights movement as a racial justice advocacy organization for African Americans and other people whom society has marginalized in the South Puget Sound. For more than 50 years, we’ve provided services, training, and advocacy to build social and economic equality. Thousands of people have passed through our doors and their lives have been positively shaped by the Tacoma Urban League.
Our 5 pillars of work
All our work is community-focused and community-led, including our programming. We offer people the information, and resources they need to realize their goals and dreams, in a safe, welcome space.
Our programs are focused on the foundations of a thriving community: Education, Economic Empowerment, Health, Housing, and Justice.
Black Business Directory
Our Black Empowerment Center makes finding Black-owned businesses easier than ever through our Black Business Directory. Search our directory and let us connect you with the services you need or become an individual, business, or corporate member for access to classes, events, discounts, and exclusive offers. Members have access to specialized training, grants, resources and networking events.
Buying Black helps our city thrive!
Search our Directory to find and support Black-owned businesses.
Become a member to list your business and access trainings, events, and more.
Get Involved
Donate
Contribute to funding our services, training, and advocacy that build social and economic equality.