Freedom Fund Dinner Honored Community Champions

We thank our supporters!

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The Elizabeth Branch NAACP hosted its annual Freedom Fund Award Gala on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at KEAN University STEM Building.  The Gala held during Black History Month, serves as a critical fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the NAACP Elizabeth Branch’s ongoing voter education, criminal justice reform, economic empowerment, and youth development initiatives. These crucial efforts ensure a brighter future for all members of the community. The NAACP looks forward to enhancing these efforts as we advance with the support of their partners and community.

Shawn McClain, President of the NAACP Elizabeth Branch, stated, “This Freedom Fund dinner was the best of the three years that I’ve been president. Since 2020, I have developed many new relationships and collaborative partnerships. Working alongside Kean University, the Lesniak Institute, the County of Union, and the City of Elizabeth isn’t just amazing; it’s a testament to the collective impact we can achieve when we stand together.”

The NAACP was thrilled to have Kellie Ledet, Chief Government Affairs Officer, and Special Assistant to the President at Kean University, as our keynote speaker. In addition, they are honored to have a virtual message from US Senator Cory Booker and the in-person presence of Senate President Nicholas Scutari.

The Freedom Fund Award Gala was enriched by many NAACP partners throughout the night. Starting with a few words from Mayor Christian J. Bollwage, a lifelong partner and supporter of the NAACP, was followed by a statement from a champion of social justice and the President of the Lesniak Institute, former Senator Raymond J. Lesniak. Union County Commissioners Chairwoman Kimberly Palmeri-Mouded, a driving force for positive change, and Elizabeth City Council: 1st Ward Carlos Torres, a dedicated advocate for our community, attended along with over 300 guests.

The NAACP showcased inspirational performances by Monique Randolph, Gene Ossbourne, Kevin Macallister, and Kwao Taylor, who complemented the event with their artistic expression.

The Freedom Fund Dinner recognized the outstanding achievements of several individuals through prestigious awards:

• Raymond L. Hamlin, Esq. will receive the Presidential Award.
• Joann Blount was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
• Rev. Joseph H. Garlic was presented with the Social Justice Award.
• Pastor Joseph Louis Adair, Jr. received the Altruism Award.
• Jeremiah LaPorte was recognized with the Youth Activist Award.
• Natasha S. Davis was presented with the Community Service Award.
• Lillian Gourdine (Branch Treasurer) received the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Elizabeth Branch NAACP President.

Investing in the Future: The Freedom Fund Dinner serves as a critical fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the NAACP Elizabeth Branch’s ongoing initiatives in voter education, criminal justice reform, economic empowerment, and youth development.

We thank those who joined us in our efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive community!