The Carbondale Branch of the NAACP is preparing for its 47th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet, set to take place at the Carbondale Civic Center.
This year’s keynote speaker is Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch, the current Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives.
Welch brings a wealth of experience in public service and education reform.
He spent 12 years on the Proviso Township High School Board of Education, where he played a pivotal role in the creation of the Proviso Math and Science Academy, a school recognized for its excellence by Chicago Magazine.
The banquet will also include the presentation of awards to two Outstanding Community Partners—Toyin Fox and Lynette Miller—for their significant contributions to the local community.
Both honorees have a long history of community involvement and service, embodying the NAACP’s mission to advance justice and equity for all.
Tickets for the event are available for $30 per person or $350 for a reserved table of eight.
Those interested can purchase tickets in advance on Eventbrite or through local Branch members.
For further details, you can contact Banquet Chair Anna Jackson at 618-521-2919 or Branch President Linda Flowers at 618-203-6252.
The banquet will take place on Sunday, October 27, at 4:00 P.M.
