Development of African American Professionals
Serving Youth Fund

Established by SOAAP Founders

In September 1999, the Society of African American Professionals (SOAAP) was formed by 12 experienced, committed professionals in Saint Louis, MO to create national and regional forums for networking and mentoring while promoting career development and recognition.

With the passing of the torch to the current SOAAP organization leadership within Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), a group of founding members have committed to the establishment of the Development of African American Professionals Serving Youth Fund

Why the Development of African American Professionals Serving Youth Fund?

Today more than ever, America's youth who most need the support, guidance, mentoring, exposure and access to the many opportunities available to them to become self-sufficient, responsible and contributing members of society, depend on the dedicated professionals in our work who daily broker and facilitate these supports becoming a reality! Collectively we need to invest in the ongoing development and capacity of this workforce to effectively reach and help more youth, especially given the growing complexity and challenging world young people have to negotiate today.

Fund objectives:

Annual Lou Dantzler and Judith Pickens personal financial awards made in recognition of outstanding contributions to African American youth development professionals.
Establish Jim Cox and Richard Jordan Scholarship in recognition of inspiring and exceptional youth participants with a focus on urban youth.
Create a virtual museum to record and retain archives documenting African American contributions in the field.
Facilitate a regular opportunity to connect African American retirees and former BGCA and other youth development professionals.
Recognize contributions of African American professionals and/or supports from other youth development organizations, i.e., board members, volunteers, celebrities, communities and leaders.

Fund Contribution Levels

Founders Circle - $1,500

Lou Danztler and Judith J. Pickens Legacy Club - $1,000

Jim Cox and Richard Jordan Youth Development Champion - $500

Aspiring Youth - $250

Everyday Hero - $150

The income and principal from the Fund will be used to make monetary awards to any 501(c)(3) public charity (including Boys & Girls Clubs) that supports the development of African American Professionals serving youth.

Please make checks payable to and mail to:

Development of African American Professionals Serving Youth Fund

Or contribute on-line at

SOAPP Founders

Advisory Board Members

Chair Dave Smith | Vice Chair April Janney

Members Rob Clay Lincoln Ellis Carl Lavender

Let’s Work Together

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