DURHAM -- The Durham Branch NAACP 36th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet will be held 6 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Durham Civic Center at the Marriott Hotel, 201 Foster St.
The theme for the occasion is "Celebrating Progress, Meeting Challenges." Bennett College for Women President Julianne Malveaux will be the keynote speaker.
"Dr. Malveaux is a committed activist and civic leader whose contributions to the public dialogue on issues such as race, culture, gender and their economic impacts are shaping public opinion in 21st century America," said Durham Branch President Fred Foster.
The highlight of this year's event will the honoring of two members of the organization with long tenures of service to the Durham community, and special recognition of another honoree
n Vivian McCoy is a long-term member of the Durham Branch NAACP who was active during the Civil Rights Movement. She is an original member of the first youth chapter of the Durham Branch NAACP organized by then Judge Floyd McKissick Sr. She is also a well-known, passionate activist dedicated to uplifting the North-East Central Durham community.
n Thomas Bass is a life member of the NAACP who provided extensive, compassionate dental services irrespective of ability to pay prior to his retirement. He is a soft-spoken educational leader who was a member of the Durham City School's Board of Education for twenty-one years. During his tenure, he served as Chairman of the Board for six years. He also found the time to become involved in a wide range of professional, educational, civic, community, religious and fraternal organizations.
n Terry Allebaugh, Executive Director of Housing for New Hope, will receive special recognition for his eighteen years of advocacy for the homeless and his continuous efforts to expand services to provide for the neediest of our citizens.
For ticket, sponsorship and other information, call (919) 682-4930.
