Meet Eric Leslie: the founder and lead organizer
Eric Leslie, the founder and lead organizer of Union Capital, is a leader driven by a passion for empowering communities through social capital. Born and raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Eric’s life journey has been deeply rooted in community engagement. He has spent decades working as a teacher, principal, and community organizer in various cities, including the Mississippi Delta, Baltimore, New York City, and Philadelphia, before returning home to Cambridge to launch Union Capital in 2014.
The Birth of Union Capital
Eric’s vision for Union Capital was born out of a profound understanding of the challenges faced by historically marginalized communities. Having witnessed the devastating impacts of systemic racism and under-resourcing, he recognized a gap in building pathways of opportunity. “We need knowledge, financial capital, and, most importantly, social capital,” Eric explains.
Union Capital’s innovative approach focuses on fostering social capital—the networks and relationships that open doors to opportunities. Eric emphasizes the power of personal connections, citing that 80% of jobs in the U.S. are secured through relationships.
“It’s not always what you know but who you know,” he says.
Eric’s journey to establish Union Capital began at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government in 2013, where he honed his ideas, built relationships, and developed a business plan. By September 2014, the organization launched its first pilot program, rewarding community members for volunteering and contributing to their neighborhoods. The pilot distributed $20,000 to 200 participants, laying the foundation for the impactful work Union Capital continues to do today.
Community-Centered Events
Union Capital thrives on fostering community through events that bring people together. Eric’s favorite initiatives include voter engagement efforts, such as door-knocking and phone banking, which encourage community involvement. He also highlights the warmth and inspiration of weekly network nights in Boston and Springfield.
“Network nights are open to all, with dinner, childcare, and an atmosphere of laughter, hugs, and sharing,” Eric shares.
These gatherings provide vital resources, create opportunities, and strengthen connections within the community.
A Message of Empowerment
Eric’s message to the community is one of hope and collective strength. “We are more powerful than we realize,” he says. He urges individuals to embrace their power by showing up, participating, and supporting one another. Whether it’s attending a meeting, voting in an election, or simply helping a neighbor, every act of engagement builds a stronger, more connected community.
Team lunch at Seaport: October 22nd, 2024
As an intern this semester, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Eric’s leadership firsthand. From facilitating our staff meetings with clarity and purpose to organizing impactful community events that bring people together and raise funds to support UCB’s mission, Eric has been an incredible example of what it means to lead with vision and heart.
I’m grateful to have such a strong leader to learn from - someone who is not only transforming lives for the better but also inspiring others to join in the effort to create meaningful change.