The idea of an Urban League affiliate was discussed by members of the St. Petersburg community in 1976. Initial funding was secured through a CETA contract to operate a preemployment orientation program and Mr. James O. Simmons was appointed as the founder and first President & CEO of the Pinellas County Urban League (PCUL) in 1977.

National Urban League (NUL) officially certified the affiliate in 1978.

Herman L. Lessard served as President & CEO from November 2004 through October 2006.

Gregory Johnson served as the President & CEO from October 2007 through October 2011. Rev.

Watson L. Haynes, II, a native of St. Petersburg and a popular public speaker, consultant and advocate for education assumed the role of President & CEO in May 2012 but unfortunately, he passed away in August 2022 after a brief illness. The Board of Directors conducted a nationwide search for a new leader and selected an individual whose roots stretch throughout the community and state. The organization achieved a first with the only woman to head the agency. Andrea Nikki Gaskin-Capehart, the former Director of Urban Affairs for the City of St. Petersburg, was selected after a national search to become the League’s new President Chief Executive Officer in September 2023.

These vignettes describe the pivotal events and program development which form the unique history and depict the forward movement of the Pinellas County Urban League to fulfill its mission to enable and empower African Americans and others who are underserved in our communities to achieve their highest human potential and secure economic self-reliance, parity, power, and civil rights. The progress of the PCUL is the direct result of the vision, dedication and commitment of a dedicated Board and staff.

PCUL has added many programs and services under the strategic direction of the NUL and is highly respected in the community. The PCUL programs positively impact individuals and families in areas of Education, Career Development, Financial Empowerment, Housing, Health Initiatives, and Youth and Family Services.