| The organization’s
goals primarily parallel those of the national NAACP, with local emphasis in the area of
school academics, voter education/registration, and equal opportunity/employment. The James P. Humphrey Sidney-Shelby County Black Achievers’ Scholarship Committee was organized January 29, 1987, and was composed of Dorothy A. Franklin, Chairman; Virginia Thompson, Secretary-Treasurer; James P. Humphrey, James Daniel, Rev. Claudie Johnson, Dale Locker, Sr., and Kenneth Ruth. This committee was charged with the responsibility of administering a scholarship program established by the community. The funds are awarded in recognition of Humphrey’s commitment to excellence in education, black history, community service (he was Sidney’s first black mayor), and his deep dedication to religious beliefs. Black Achiever awards are also given to adults who are dedicated to improving the "quality of life" in their communities. The Frank O’Leary Award was established to preserve the memory of the man responsible for the group’s inception, and his relentless pledge to equality for all citizens. The award is given to those white individuals, who in the spirit of Frank O’Leary, have shown excellent leadership in the area of vocational opportunity and equal treatment. The prestigious award has been presented on three occasions to the following recipients: Matthew Diggs (Copeland executive); Richard Pope (Stolle executive); and Dale Lochard (Stolle Manager). All funding for the local chapter’s programs is derived from membership fees and private donations. |
|
[Back] [Next] [Up] [New Search] 'Black History' segment written in June, 1998 by David Lodge |
