Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Victoria Henderson Weber
Email: prez@naacpdesmoines.org
NAACP Des Moines Branch Announces 2024 Freedom Fund Award Honorees
Des Moines, IA — 12/10/2024 – The NAACP Des Moines Branch is proud to announce the recipients of its prestigious 2024 Freedom Fund Awards. These individuals and organizations have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to uplifting the community and advancing civil rights. The awards will be presented during the 46th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on December 13, 2024, at Prairie Meadows.
This year’s banquet will also honor historic Des Moines Firefighters and commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Federal Court Consent Decree, which integrated the Des Moines Fire Department. The evening’s keynote speaker is the esteemed Roscoe Jones, Jr., a prominent advocate for justice and Dean of Drake Law School.
2024 Freedom Fund Award Winners
Visionary Leadership in Education Award Dr. Skylar Mayberry-Mayes Executive Director of The Jacobson Institute, is being honored for his work in education and workforce development. Through initiatives that expand access to learning opportunities, his leadership has creates pathways for success for both students and working professionals.
Organization of the Year Award The Healthy Project Led by Corey Dion Lewis, The Healthy Project is a public health media company dedicated to reframing health narratives through an equity lens. Their innovative initiatives include compelling podcasts and community health programs that bridge gaps between public health expertise and accessible storytelling.
Women in the NAACP’s “Sue M. Brown” Award
Ruth Ann Gaines
A lifelong educator and eight-term Iowa State Representative, Ruth Ann Gaines has inspired countless individuals through her dedication to mentorship, education, and social justice. Her leadership in initiatives like Sisters for Success exemplifies the spirit of Sue M. Brown’s legacy of community empowerment and advocacy.
Youth Leadership Award
Candace Carr
A senior at Drake University, is being honored for her exceptional leadership and commitment to service. With a strong academic record and a passion for empowering others, Candace has led impactful initiatives fostering mentorship and equity for local youth. Her dedication inspires her peers and uplifts the community.
Faith-Based Organization Award
Central District Baptist Association
With over 90 years of service, the Central District Baptist Association has united 20 member churches to provide critical community resources, including food pantries, health clinics, and voter registration drives. Their commitment to faith-led service continues to transform lives in the greater Des Moines area.
Excellence in Advocacy Award
Ako Abdul-Samad
Founder of Creative Visions Human Development Institute, is honored for his lifetime of advocacy and service. From championing police reform legislation to supporting underserved communities, his work embodies the essence of advocacy for justice and equity.
Quote from Branch President
NAACP Des Moines Branch President Victoria Henderson Weber remarked, “Each of these honorees exemplifies the courage, dedication, and vision needed to create lasting change in our community. Their contributions remind us that progress requires us to be ‘All In.’ As we celebrate their achievements, we also honor the historic Des Moines Firefighters and the legacy of the Consent Decree, which continues to inspire our commitment to justice for all people.
About the Freedom Fund Banquet
The Freedom Fund Banquet is the Des Moines NAACP’s flagship annual event, dedicated to raising funds for civil rights initiatives and community programs.
For tickets, please visit https://www.naacpdesmoines.org
About the NAACP Founded in 1915, The mission of the Des Moines Branch of the NAACP is to achieve equity and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices to expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of all persons of color in central Iowa.
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