Dear Urban League Family,



As we step into August, we are reminded that this season marks both a time of reflection and renewal. Families across the region are preparing for the back-to-school season, and with it comes the hope of fresh opportunities for our young people to learn, grow, and thrive. At the Urban League of San Diego County, education has always been a cornerstone of our mission, and we remain steadfast in ensuring that every child has equitable access to resources that support their academic success and long-term career pathways.

This August, we also find ourselves at a critical moment in our nation’s story. Across the country, conversations about justice, ethics, and human dignity continue to shape our daily lives. Here in San Diego, we are committed to advancing social justice not as a distant goal but as a lived reality. Whether through advocacy for fair housing policies, fighting to close the racial wealth gap, or providing direct services to families, the Urban League stands as a beacon of resilience and action.

The economic landscape remains challenging for many of our neighbors. Rising costs of living, limited affordable housing, and ongoing inflationary pressures continue to widen disparities. Yet, we know that strong communities are built when we stand together. Through our housing counseling programs, workforce development initiatives, and youth empowerment services, we are addressing these challenges head-on. Our focus remains on creating stability, opportunity, and pathways for families to build generational wealth and security.

Back-to-school season also reminds us that our young scholars are watching. They look to us as leaders, parents, and community members to set the tone for the future. We must continue to model what it means to advocate for fairness, to champion ethical practices, and to never stop fighting for the promise of a more just society.

As we move forward, I invite you to stay connected with the Urban League of San Diego County. Together, we are not only confronting today’s issues—we are building tomorrow’s solutions. Let us recommit ourselves to justice, education, housing, and economic empowerment.

With gratitude and determination,

Al Abdallah

President & CEO

Urban League of San Diego County

Why would a well-meaning Black person who has demonstrated limited interest in politics or public service run for office when a qualified Black person meeting the interests of their constituents occupies what is considered a safe seat?

I am sure they would answer, “I believe I can do better”. I say that’s Crazy!

Often described as America’s Finest City, there is a unique oneness to how African Americans leverage their political power, or lack thereof. We are a city of one; one Black school board member, one Black city council person (regardless of town), one Black supervisor, one Black assembly member, and one Black state senator. And yes, we are fortunate to have a Black person serving in a statewide office, the Honorable Secretary of State Shirley Weber, PhD.

Some see these as significant achievements for a small African American community, especially since there were once none.

Individuals identifying as Black make up 5.6% of the County's population. There is no electoral jurisdiction where Blacks hold a plurality. Thus, Black politics must be formed through alliances with others. This brings us back to the central question of why one Black candidate would choose to run against another Black incumbent in an election where the overall composition of political representation remains the same.

Council District 4’s March 2024 election filled the vacancy left by Monica Montgomery Steppe, with her Chief of Staff winning the seat. Because more than two years remain in the term, the current officeholder may run for another full term, ensuring up to six years of stability in the office.

The Fourth Councilmanic District has maintained continuous Black representation since the appointment of the late Leon Williams in 1966, with nine individuals serving to date. While the district does not have a Black majority, it includes approximately 30% of San Diego’s African American population. The current demographic breakdown is 32% Hispanic, 26% Black, 24% White, 19% Asian, and 4% other groups. Political progress is often achieved through strategic alliance-building. Strategies for increasing Black political influence may be most effective when they aim to expand the overall number of Black elected officials, rather than replacing existing officeholders. Furthermore, the practice of candidates establishing residency within a district exclusively to qualify for electoral office after living elsewhere merits scrutiny regarding their motivations and broader intentions.

Since there is no district or seat reserved solely for Black representation, all positions in the county present opportunities to serve and make meaningful contributions to the community. While some argue that Council District 4 presents the strongest prospect, it should not be viewed as the only viable option. And in case you haven’t noticed, no other ethnic or special interest group limits its voice to just one district.

Black representation in public office is essential, and it is necessary to ensure that every public body includes Black voices to promote a diversity of perspectives. But there is a more fundamental need for Black voices to be present in every community throughout the city and county. Not just the Black community but all of San Diego’s residents will offer support when they believe candidates are seeking office for the right reasons and in suitable roles. Rather than competing against one another, let us focus on fostering mutual support and advancement, working collaboratively instead of diminishing others in pursuit of personal ambition.

The National Urban League mantra, “Not alms but opportunity”

This column does not reflect the philosophy of the Urban League of San Diego County management, its policies, nor does it endorse any political views mentioned herein.

If you know of high school youth struggling with multiple barriers, especially some form of homelessness, unhoused, please reach out to the Urban League of San Diego County at 619.266.6265 or kea@sdul.org. We want to invite them to join our network of high school and college students, which supports college and career readiness. We aim to empower the next generation of young leaders to succeed in education, career paths, and local community civic engagement opportunities.

We are partnering with Doors of Change and other local partners to help youth reach their highest potential for success.

If you know of students between 8th and 12th grade who want to join a program that helps them prepare for college and careers, encourage them to apply.

This program focuses on Mentorship, Leadership Development, College Tours, College Preparation, the National Case Competition, and Career Preparation, all in partnership with the National Urban League.

Scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors who complete the program from start to finish, complete more than 88% of required activities, are active in the KUDER online platform, actively engage in activity discussions, and attend the necessary Golden Pyramid Scholars Program in May.

Participation is required in the Annual Golden Pyramid Scholars Program held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 (held on the 3^rd Sunday of May each year).

After completing three impactful sessions of the BiGI Summer Academy, the University of San Diego's School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) welcomed 104 new BiGI scholars at its third annual induction ceremony last month.

You can support BiGI’s efforts today by giving to the BiGI Fund, which helps provide opportunities such as summer and Saturday programming with wraparound services, STEAM-focused academics, counseling, college workshops, and more. Be part of building a network of opportunity and possibility for San Diego youth!

By Shane O'Garro



At the heart of every relationship, whether it’s with your parents, siblings, partner, or even the gym, there are four laws. These laws have existed for a very long time, and the truth is, we live by them whether we realize it or not. The problem? Many of us are breaking these laws without even knowing it.

How do I know? I'll be sure to ask you a few questions. When you wake up after a full night’s sleep, do you still feel exhausted? When you talk to certain people, do you walk away drained? And when you leave work, are you so worn out that you sit in the car for a few minutes just to gather the energy to drive home? For some of us, all three of these scenarios are true—and it doesn’t make sense.

The reality is that we are leaking energy all over the place. We often hear advice to “watch your energy,” but no one really explains the reasons behind it. Sure, we know we should be careful who we spend time with, but there’s more to it. There’s an order to how energy flows. In terms of the truth, you can’t simply cut off a relationship with your mother, father, or someone you’re responsible for because they’re draining you. That’s not realistic. Avoiding everyone will only leave you isolated—and you’re needed. You’re valuable. So, what do we do instead?

The First Law: Energy is Currency

When you wake up, you're full of energy. That energy is your currency for the day, but it’s limited, it’s finite. When you run low, you feel exhausted. This means you must be intentional about how you spend it. Unfortunately, many of us waste energy on things that don’t benefit us. Yelling is expensive. Worrying is expensive. Arguing is expensive. If you truly understood how much energy worrying costs you, you’d do less of it.

The Second Law: Build a Bridge

Now that you know your energy is limited, how do you use it wisely? You build bridges. When you build a bridge with someone or something, energy flows both ways.

I often use the example of starting a new relationship, whether it’s platonic or romantic. In the early stages, neither person feels drained because energy is flowing back and forth freely like over a bridge. This same concept applies to things that enrich your life, such as going to the gym, writing, or any hobby that brings you joy. You built a bridge, and that bridge sustains you.

The only exception to this law is when you are in a teaching role. Teachers and mentors give without expecting energy back. But if people in your life are constantly draining you and you’re not teaching or mentoring them, something is misaligned. We tend to keep misaligned relationships much longer than we should, and that imbalance wears us down.

The Third Law: Maintenance

This law is what keeps relationships strong over time. You must use some of the energy we discussed in the First Law to maintain the bridges you’ve built.

In relationships, maintenance often looks like quality time with your partner or kids. With habits, it might be consistently showing up to the gym or carving out time to write.

Too often, we forget that relationships and habits require work. We get comfortable, and cracks start to form in the bridge. But here’s the truth: it’s easier to repair small cracks than it is to build a brand-new bridge.

The Fourth Law: Decay

If you don’t maintain the bridge, it will eventually collapse. The Law of Decay states that all things naturally deteriorate over time.

This may sound harsh, but it’s reality. If you stop caring for your house or your car, they deteriorate. Relationships work the same way. When there’s no maintenance, decay creeps in.

I know some will say, “But they cheated!” While betrayal is never excusable, most breakdowns don’t happen overnight. In many cases, there were missed opportunities to check in and address small issues before they became big ones. Again, I’m not placing blame, but if the bridge had been maintained, maybe the collapse could have been prevented.

Decay is the enemy of everything you hold dear. It’s always waiting in the wings, and your job is to keep it at bay. That means maintaining what’s important, your health, friendships, marriage, and work habits—because it’s much harder to rebuild than to preserve.

Putting It All Together

These are the Four Ancient Laws of Energy:

1.  Energy is Currency

2.  Build a Bridge

3.  Maintain the Bridge

4.  Prevent Decay

As you start living with these laws in mind, you'll quickly notice what drains you and what empowers you. I hope you realize which friendships have been misaligned for a long time and feel confident enough to address them. Your romantic relationships will strengthen. In addition, you will wake up less exhausted because you won’t be living in a constant energy deficit.

People have told me they feel more energetic simply because they became aware of these laws. They can now distinguish between something that’s expensive but worth it and something expensive but not worth it.

I remember one night when I had to give a talk after a long day. I got home late and was very tired. My wife asked me, “Was it expensive?” I said, “Yes—but it was worth it.”

That’s how I choose to live now. I invest my energy wisely. I limit conversations with people who tire me out within 30 minutes, since I need to save my energy for myself, my kids, and the people I love.

I hope these laws help. Start paying attention to how energy flows in your life—and see just how much power you really have.

Are You a Senior Living in San Diego and

 Need Help Finding Resources?

Finding the right senior programs should not feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Not sure where to start—or tired of getting the runaround?

The Urban League of San Diego County (ULSDC) Elder Multicultural Access & Support Services (EMASS) Team is here to help you!

We proudly serve as advocates for San Diego residents aged 60 and older, connecting you to the resources you need and deserve.

While we do not provide direct senior programs or financial aid, our mission is to identify services tailored to your age, income, and personal or family needs.

We may be able to connect you with trusted programs that offer:

• Home food delivery (free or at a minimal cost)
• Transportation to and from appointments
• In-home senior services (cooking, cleaning, etc.)
• In-home health care providers
• Veteran services

Tell us what you need—we will do the legwork for you. This assistance is provided at no cost to you. We are your partner and your advocate.

You are not alone on this journey. We are here to support and stand by you every step of the way.

Once we find the right program(s) for you, we can also:

• Help you complete any required application(s)
• Attend appointments with you
• Speak with program representatives on your behalf
• We'll follow up with you to make sure that the selected program is meeting your needs.

Our EMASS team, led by Jackie Stanley, is available to help you. You can reach Jackie by email at Jackie@sdul.org or by phone on 619-266-6285

Good morning Community member,

        September is Ovarian & Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

African American males have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and are 2-3 times more likely to die from prostate cancer than white males.  Men, PLEASE get your PSA blood test done every year, starting at the age of 40, especially if you have a family history of prostate cancer.

Women, there is NO routine blood test to screen for ovarian cancer. If you develop abdominal bloating or swelling, unintentional weight loss, pelvic discomfort, constipation, frequent urination, fatigue, or back pain, contact your medical provider.  

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Blessings, 

Dr. Suzanne Afflalo and Wendy Shurelds

FREE Services:

• FREE Health Screenings:
• Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, Cholesterol, A1c, HIV, Hep-C
• FREE breast exams, mammogram sign-ups & breast education
• Medical consultation available to discuss your health & test results.
• Health education and dietary education
• FREE Eye exams and glasses - UCSD Shiley EyeMobile
• FREE fresh produce & dry food distribution
• FREE Sports Physicals for student athletes of all ages
• NO SD Humane Society Van this month
• Medi-Cal & CalFresh enrollment assistance available
• PARKING INSTRUCTIONS:
• Due to limited parking, if the JRYMCA parking lot is full, please park across the street and take the shuttle provided for the Health Fair Park at the Dollar Tree parking lot & walk over, or take the shuttle
• A shuttle will pick up participants every 10 minutes at Asia Wok
• Asia Wok - 255 Marketplace Ave, 92113 (next to the Dollar Tree)

The success of the monthly Community Health & Resource Fair relies on everyone spreading the word in the community. Share the event flyer with your friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and on your social media platforms.  Thanks for serving the community.

Warm regards,

Dr. Suzanne Afflalo & Wendy Shurelds

Are you passionate about the health and wellness of our community? Do you work in the health wellness industry? Do you have a skill that can benefit the advancement of health and wellness equity in our community? If so, we need you! Our community needs you! Sign up today using the link below. If you have questions, please send an email to info@sdul.org.

We want to help you with tools to "Thrive in 2025"!

Do you have a business that provides health and wellness for individuals and families in the County of San Diego, Orange County, or the Inland Empire?

We are creating a Health & Wellness Directory housed on the Urban League of San Diego County website. This will include a behavioral health directory and a general health and wellness directory. According to the attendees of our Fireside Chats, areas in our communities lack health resources and need more urgent care facilities, especially ones open after 5 p.m. Our young families need a directory and a resource toolkit that includes accepted insurance information and medical professionals with cultural sensitivity training for diverse community members. This will be an online business list versus a case management site. Individuals will be directed to contact hotlines if they need to speak to a live person or need case management services.

This can be mental health, medical health, doula professional health, promotoras/ community health worker, physical health, fitness, or nutritional health businesses. This can be small, extensive, private practice, or consulting businesses.

The UC San Diego Black Alumni Scholarship Fund offers eligible students a four-year $10,000 scholarship renewable at $2,500 annually. This scholarship program provides financial, academic, and personal support to over 200 students currently attending UCSD. Steps to follow to apply for the BASF Scholarship are: (1) apply to UCSD before the 11/30/25 deadline; (2) if you are offered admission to UCSD, you will receive a link to the application from BASF; (3) complete and submit the online application.

Please review a list of openings!

Please refer candidates to our website: https://jobs.citi.com/

Once you go to this site, you will see a search bar. You can then type in the position you are interested in and apply. You just need to create an online profile and attach a resume. 

San Diego Area

• 25887416-Head Universal Banker- El Cajon Branch
• 25885130-Universal Banker- San Marcos Branch
• 25887416- Head Universal Banker- Mission Valley

• CEO search for United Way of San Diego County. Read the full job listing and apply: http://bit.ly/3UTT5dO
• The City of San Diego Apply Online: www.sandiego.gov/empopp/

-Airport Operations Assistant

-Clerical Assistant II (Temporary Pool)

-Crime Scene Specialist I

-Crime Scene Specialist II

-Program Coordinator - Department of Information Technology

(Unclassified)

-Senior Electrical Engineer

-Senior Wastewater Plant Operator

-Wastewater Plant Operator

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is hiring a Deputy General Counsel and a Financial Analyst. 
• Position details are on the national website of DST
• The City of West Sacramento has open career opportunities.
• Learn more here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/westsacramento

These are some important dates to mark on your calendar!

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Urban League of San Diego County Equal Opportunity Day

Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 2 p.m.

Golden Pyramid Scholars Program

Do you have an upcoming event that should be shared with our community? Please use the link below, and we will review and add it to our website calendar.

The Urban League of San Diego County uses specific image sizes to maintain consistency across all viewing platforms. Any event submissions with images not properly cropped will result in immediate rejection.

Submitting your event does not guarantee that it will be posted on www.sdul.org.

Becoming a member of the Urban League of San Diego County does qualify your event to appear on the website. For more information about becoming a member of one of our auxilaries contact info@sdul.org or call 619.266.6265.