germaine_smith-baugh_web.jpgFORT LAUDERDALE — The nonprofit human services organization the Urban League of Broward County is the recipient of a $100,000 gift from the Enterprise Holdings Foundation. 


The contribution supports the Urban League’s efforts to expand programs and services through its new Community Empowerment Center (CEC), which celebrated its grand opening in April 2012. 

The Enterprise Holdings Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the company that, through its regional subsidiaries, operates the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands.  The foundation supports nonprofit programs that address issues related to education, health and human services, environmental sustainability and disaster relief.

“The Urban League advances Enterprise’s commitment to strengthening the communities in which our employees work and live,” said Alan Levine, vice president and general manager of Enterprise Holdings in South Florida, who serves on the Urban League’s Board of Directors.

“We look forward to seeing more companies rally in support of the new facility and the Urban League’s efforts to build a better Broward County through college preparedness programs, wealth building initiatives and workforce development.”

The CEC, which co-anchors the African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) and Rev. Samuel Delevoe Park, was designed to emphasize a “campus-like” atmosphere between the three entities, while providing an iconic landmark for community services and activities.

The CEC features state-of-the-art digital classrooms for training sessions using video conferencing technology. The new facility offers extensive meeting space for workshops and community forums, a community resource center to support local civic organizations and small businesses. It also features a 4,000 sq. ft. multipurpose center that can be used to facilitate job and housing fairs and much more.

“We are confident that this gift will help the Urban League continue offering impactful solutions to problems that disproportionately affect residents in underserved communities,” said President and CEO Germaine Smith-Baugh.  “This is another example of philanthropy that goes beyond corporate giving.  Enterprise has committed to being a great ally in the Urban League’s movement toward positive change.”

For more information about the Community Empowerment Center, call the Urban League of Broward County, 954-584-0777, or visit ulbroward.org

Photo: Germaine Smith Baugh