
Our Community Needs Your Voice
Want to understand how to be the best board member?
Want to become more connected with the community?
Then check out AABLI!



Last February the United Way of the Wabash Valley launched the African-American Board Leadership Institute (AABLI). The goal of this program is to increase the number and broaden the participation of African Americans in leadership roles in the Wabash Valley. After the success of the first cohort, we are excited to launch our second cohort.
AABLI works to help provide skills and knowledge for potential community leaders by providing a deep-dive look into governance responsibilities through a variety of activities. Among these are monthly intensive in-person meetings that include group discussions, exercises, case studies, and the building of problem-solving skills during February- July 2024. Participants receive materials and templates to maximize the program’s effectiveness. Those who complete the AABLI program are eligible for assistance with placement on governing boards or commissions. This program will exemplify the powers of community collaboration in building not only leaders but strengthening business connections and representation at all levels of leadership.
Program Design
- Monthly in person meetings
- February – July 2024
- Workshops, Group Discussions, Case Studies, and Guest Speakers
- Connections in the Community
- Cost = FREE
The program meets monthly on Saturdays from 10 am – 2 pm on February 17, March 16, April 20, May 18, and June 15, and closes with a July event on a date to be determined.

The United Way of the Wabash Valley believes that to truly Live United we must include all voices in our community. Research consistently shows that people of color remain underrepresented in nonprofit boards, compared to their representation in society. This program will work to build up the strengths of African-American leaders and connect them in the community.
AABLI is open to any African American looking to be more prepared to give back to their community. This could include anyone from young professionals looking to advance in their community to well-established individuals looking to have a better understanding of being involved in community boards.
This will be the second cohort of the program. Contact Abby Desboro at [email protected] or 812-235-6287 with questions.
Support AABLI
AABLI is a program of the United Way of the Wabash Valley and is provided to participants at no charge. But to make a program like this successful it takes resources and time to complete. Please consider donating directly to the AABLI program to help offset costs for the cohort including facilitators and program supplies. We appreciate your support as we work together to create a stronger Wabash Valley.
2023 AABLI Cohort Graduates

Kelsey Bogard

Nichelle Campbell-Miller

Janell Chatman

Tiffany Cherry

Sherah Crosby

Sade E. Denton

Shanda Holliman

Sonja Jordan

Samuel J. Lewis Sr.

Jasmine Lewis

Dr. Janie Myers

James Porter

Stephanie R. Stewart

Shanya Tompkins

LT Thompson

Tante Vaughn

Destiny Wilson

Garien Woods
