News Summary
The 79th Founders Day Gala in Jacksonville was a spectacular celebration marked by laughter and community unity. Keynote speaker Cynthia Butler-McIntyre inspired guests, while the event successfully raised over $30,000 for scholarship programs aimed at empowering local youth. Notable contributions from city officials demonstrated the dedication to community service, leaving attendees inspired and connected in their shared mission to uplift the younger generation.
Jacksonville’s 79th Founders Day Gala Shines with Generosity and Spirit
On a delightful evening in Jacksonville, the air was filled with laughter, music, and a sense of community as JAC hosted its 79th Founders Day Gala. This year’s event was a celebration like no other, featuring a vibrant New Orleans-style processional that captivated attendees with its lively jazz tunes and charming customized red and white umbrellas.
Honoring Excellence and Community
At the heart of the gala was the inspiring keynote speaker, Cynthia Butler-McIntyre, the 24th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.. As a proud native of New Orleans, Butler-McIntyre captivated the audience with her delightful blend of humor and profound insights on topics like history, leadership, and the importance of service. Her ability to connect with the audience not only highlighted her own accomplishments but also reignited a sense of passion and purpose within the room.
Christina Stallings, the enthusiastic President of JAC, described the event as a truly magical experience. The collective energy and excitement resonated throughout the evening, uniting attendees in their shared commitment to uplift the youth in the community.
A Heartwarming Outcome
The gala wasn’t just an evening of celebration; it was also a significant fundraising effort. JAC successfully raised over $30,000 for their scholarship programs, aimed at supporting deserving youth who are seeking educational opportunities. This impressive amount is a testament to the generosity of the community and the commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.
Key contributors helped propel the fundraising efforts to new heights. Jacksonville City Councilman Rahman Johnson made a remarkable donation of $15,000, showcasing his dedication to nurturing the talents and dreams of local youth. Additionally, Marguerite Warren, Chair of the Winona Cargile Alexander Delta Life Development Board, contributed an impressive $16,000. Together, these contributions significantly aided in reaching the fundraising goal.
A Legacy of Service and Empowerment
The funds raised during the gala are more than just a monetary achievement; they represent the ongoing legacy of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s founders. WCA Board member Gerri Orr emphasized that these contributions will continue to support the organization’s mission of providing vital opportunities for youth while promoting the core principles of service, scholarship, and sisterhood.
The evening was not just about raising funds, but also about fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among those in attendance. Participants left the gala not only feeling inspired but also more connected to their community and the important work that lies ahead.
Looking Forward
As JAC moves forward, the spirit of the 79th Founders Day Gala serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of collaboration and generosity. The organization’s ambitious goals will continue to pave the way for meaningful initiatives that benefit local youth.
The evening was a true reflection of what can be accomplished when people come together with a shared vision to enhance the lives of others. With the funds raised and the connections made, JAC is poised to ensure that many deserving young people will receive the support they need to flourish in their educational endeavors.
Jacksonville indeed witnessed a night of celebration, motivation, and community spirit, leaving everyone buzzing with anticipation for the positive impacts that are sure to follow.
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Additional Resources
- My New Orleans: New Orleans Jazz Museum Gala
- OffBeat: New Orleans Jazz International Initiative
- NOLA: Zoo to Do Jazz Fest Gala
- Wikipedia: New Orleans Jazz
- Google Search: jazz music
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
