Local kids have big futures thanks to one Birmingham organization

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Birmingham has a history of people who have made a lasting impact in the community, working to ensure equal rights and quality of life for all of its citizens. One of these people whose name carries on is J. Mason Davis, a revered Civil Rights defender and advocate for local youth. Mr. Davis passed away in the spring of 2026, but his impact lives on through United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) J. Mason Davis Leadership Society.

In addition to networking and mentorship opportunities, the group conducts educational events and workshops to show students how to manage mental health, finances and wellness aspects to prepare for successful lives.

Here’s an inside look at the legacy J. Mason Davis left behind. See how you can be a part of Mr. Davis’ lasting impact on the future of Birmingham, too.

Who was J. Mason Davis?

A Birmingham native, J. Mason Davis attended Talladega College and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law.

After law school, he returned to Birmingham and began his own practice in 1959. He became one of the city’s most respected attorneys and was well known as a defender of civil rights.

And as the first African-American Chairman of the Board for UWCA, he played a pivotal role in championing equity and fostering positive change.

In April of this year, J. Mason Davis passed away at the age of 90.

How did the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society start?

In 2019, UWCA launched the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society (JMDLS) to bring together African-Americans who aim to positively impact the community through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy, honoring Mr. Davis’ legacy and years of service by naming it after him.

Mr. Davis not only provided the namesake of the group, but the Society’s priority goal to supply the community with resources and help build literacy skills.

“Our Civil Rights legacy has unfortunately passed away, so now, we’re trying to find a way to connect with younger kids to share his impact.

He was passionate about literacy. He was passionate about kids. He was passionate about developing leaders. So, we’re here in his name to take care of that legacy.“

Ken Davis, Chair, UWCA’s J. Mason Davis Leadership Society

Now, JMDLS consists of more than 500 active members, each engaged in the community and dedicated to the youth of Central Alabama. Collectively, they’ve raised more than $1.4M for Central Alabama communities.

You can make a difference in young lives, too. Learn more and get involved in the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society.

What does the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society do?

We tagged along with JMDLS members at their annual Day of Mentoring event at Hueytown Boys & Girls Club.

The day featured a series of workshops designed to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders. Students received direct mentorship from community professionals who led sessions focused on:

• Career development/business etiquette
• Financial management
• Healthy habits
• Mental health

The society also visits early childhood centers each month to read aloud to children, helping promote early literacy and a love of reading from an early age. Mr. Davis’ passion for education goes hand-in-hand with the work done by UWCA’s Success by 6.

What impact does this organization make on Central Alabama kids?

Since its inception in 2019, the JMDLS has kept the same focus on leadership engagement, education and service to Central Alabama students.

For a small investment of their time, it’s rewarding work for the members because they get to see local kids thrive.

“I’ve seen the highs and lows of Birmingham and always thought, ‘Okay, what can I do?‘ And I‘m passionate about doing this because I’m a kid from the city. I want to make sure our next generation has opportunities and tools for how to be better.“

Ken Davis, Chair, UWCA’s J. Mason Davis Leadership Society

The hearts and hands behind JMDLS are dedicated to keeping the legacy of J. Mason Davis alive—and this is the best way they know how to do it.

Learn more + get involved with the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society at United Way of Central Alabama.

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