The mission of the Urban Chamber of Commerce is to create and foster an environment that promotes development of members and black owned businesses. The Nevada Black Chamber of Commerce was founded July 7, 1980, after the idea was planted by Katherine Joseph. Ms. Joseph met with members of the Oakland, California Chamber of Commerce during a visit there and was very impressed with their efforts. When Katherine returned home she shared the idea with members of the NAACP. She solicited the help of Sarann Knight-Preddy who formed a board consisting of Dr.

Leon and Norma Friedman, who were married in Pittsburg in 1957, enjoyed civic work, travel and raising their two children, Jodi and Brad. Leon kept active until his passing in 2004.