African American Leadership Initiative
AALI's Mission
The mission of AALI is to identify and cultivate African American leaders in Mansfield and Richland County. AALI functions to create a network of diverse leaders with relevant opportunities to connect and contribute.
Richland County African American Report
African American Leadership Initiative
Help The North End thrive for years to come. Donations can be conveniently made online. We appreciate your support!
AALI
Diversity is a hot topic in today's society. Even here in Richland County, many businesses, boards, schools, social groups, and other organizations are spearheading efforts to increase their diversity and become more inclusive. Moreover, study after study has highlighted the social, intellectual, and economic benefits of diversity both in the workplace and in society as a whole. As a result of this, we've decided to launch AALI, the African American Leadership Initiative.
An initiative that encourages diversity
AALI is a new initiative brought to you by the North End Community Improvement Collaborative, Inc. (NECIC). NECIC is an asset-based community economic development corporation. In serving Mansfield's diverse population, we realized that many of the assets of the African American community were unrecognized. It is our goal, through AALI, to recognize and connect those assets, encourage leadership development, and support residents in building a network that will ensure success.
Small Grant Opportunities for Black/Minority Owned Businesses.
Click here for more details about Small Business Grant Opportunities
Do you have a business or a side-hustle but don’t know enough about running and growing a business? Have an idea for a business but feel frustrated and don’t know where to start? Want to make a meaningful impact in your industry or community?
NECIC’s Business Development Services provides the following:
Business Advisory though the Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) and Trainings.
The Microbusiness Development Series is for aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs who want to gain the knowledge, skills, and tools to start, and grow a successful business.
How are African Americans doing in our community?
AALI Speaks
AALI Speaks is a speaker series that provides a platform for inspiring African American speakers to share insightful and thought-provoking experiences and stories. A great way to inspire leadership and cultivate people's assets is to expose them to high-achieving individuals.
AALI Speaks is free to attend but you can pre-order lunch for $10 on the event registration below, or feel free to bring your own. Seats are limited, so make sure to get your tickets early! Tickets are required for every event.
Do you have a speaker in mind that you would like to hear at AALI Speaks? Feel free to recommend him or her by clicking the button below.
AALI Membership and Support
Last year was a great start to AALI and we have tons of supporters to thank. We especially want to recognize the inaugural members of AALI below.
| Trai'Shaun Beard | Aretha Grier |
| Wenda Burnom | Rachel Houston |
| Alicia Camak | Jason Lawrence |
| Renda Cline | Rhonda Marsh |
| Brigitte Coles | Pamela Williams-Briggs |
| LaMeshia Curry | Antwan Woods |
| Stephen Greene |
You can also become an AALI supporter!
When you become an AALI supporter, your community support is shared with the public (unless you request to remain anonymous) through branding and marketing.
There are various opportunities to support AALI, such as sponsoring a membership or an event. In-kind donations are also welcome (and much appreciated!).
Please click the button in the table below to find out more.
Become an AALI Member | Become an AALI Supporter |
Develop self-awareness and sharpen abilities through strengths-based approach | Invest in creating an environment that focuses on inclusivity |
| Adaptive leadership training through lecture and experiential activities | Showcase commitment to the importance of professional development |
| Broaden personal and professional networks | Equip employees with tools and confidence to display leadership qualities |
| Increase understanding of community landscape | Ensure continuous pipeline of quality leaders reflective of our diverse community |
| Become a Member | Support AALI |
Thank you to our AALI Supporters!
Become a Silver AALI Supporter!
Become a Bronze AALI Supporter
134 N. Main St., Mansfield, Ohio 44902