WHO WE ARE
Empowering Youth.
Building Leaders.
Strengthening Community.
The African American Youth Leadership Coalition (AAYLC) creates opportunities for African American, Biracial, and Multiracial youth of African descent to develop leadership skills, strengthen cultural identity, and build meaningful connections through education, mentorship, and community engagement.
ABOUT AAYLC
Founded as a nonprofit organization in 2024, the AAYLC builds upon leadership development through the African American Youth Leadership Conference.
Our organization was created in response to students in Oregon who wanted year-round opportunities for mentorship, academic support, cultural education, and community connection.
Today, AAYLC serves youth and families throughout Benton and Linn counties by creating programs that inspire leadership, encourage personal growth, and celebrate African American culture.
OUR STORY
our history
The African American Youth Leadership Coalition has grown from a single annual conference into a nonprofit organization providing year-round leadership opportunities for youth and families.
2001 conference begins
The African American Youth Leadership Conference was established in Marion County to provide African American youth with opportunities to learn about leadership, history, education, and civic engagement.
2006 REgional Expansion
The conference expanded to include Linn, Benton, Lincoln, Lane, and Polk counties, bringing together students from communities across Oregon.
2024 AAYLC Founded
The African American Youth Leadership Coalition officially became a nonprofit organization after youth expressed the need for leadership opportunities beyond the annual conference.
today growing opportunities
AAYLC now provides initiatives that encourage leadership, mentorship, cultural pride, and community engagement throughout the year.
Mission
AAYLC creates a community environment that inspires and promotes leadership, advocacy, and excellence through programs and mentorship.
Vision
The AAYLC empowers confident, bold, and authentic leaders with high self-esteem and integrity to achieve their full potential.
core values
Growth, Community, Cultural Identity, Love & Compassion, Integrity, Pride, Resiliency, Education.
OUR TEAM
The board
Theodore Bunch, Jr.
State Employee
Sherrie Day
NAACP
Dr. Jason Dorsette
Linn-Benton Community College
Artonya Gemmill
Salem Keizer School District
Angel Harris
Bushnell University
Kezie Hirsch
Corvallis High School Student
Benin Hounton
West Albany High School
Student
Alex Johnson II
Mayor, City of Albany Trulife Financial Solutions
Gloria Kazimierski
The Whole Affair
Dr. Ramycia McGhee
Linn Benton Community College
Albany City Counselor Ward-2
Marilyn Stewart
Oregon State University
Professional Representative
Vacant
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee serves as the leadership body of the Board of Directors, providing oversight and guidance between full board meetings. It is responsible for reviewing financial practices annually, recommending policy revisions, and ensuring compliance with organizational standards. The committee acts on urgent matters when the full board is not in session, supports the President and Treasurer in financial oversight, and ensures that governance decisions align with the mission and integrity of the African American Youth Leadership Coalition.
Staff
Kiara Huey
AAYLC Coordinator
Call: 541-971-3505
Ready to Join Us?
Whether you’re a student looking for new opportunities, a parent seeking a supportive community, or a partner interested in investing in the next generation of leaders, AAYLC welcomes you.
Join us as we inspire leadership, celebrate culture, and strengthen our communities together.