Nationwide — The NAACP DuPage County Branch will host an evening dedicated to celebrating community leadership, scholarship, service, civil rights, and equal opportunity. The annual fundraiser brings together community advocates, faith leaders, elected officials, educators, young people, business leaders, and community partners from across the region to recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership and service are making a meaningful difference.
This year’s theme, “WE THE PEOPLE: One Community. One Struggle. One Future.” reflects the Branch’s commitment to bringing communities together in the pursuit of justice, opportunity, civic engagement, and a stronger shared future. Proceeds from the Freedom Fund Gala support the NAACP DuPage County Branch’s year-round programs and advocacy efforts in education, voter engagement, youth development, health equity, economic opportunity, civil rights, and community outreach.
Featured Community Leaders & Honorees:
• Dr. James Shannon — Peoples Community Church
• Ernest Crim III — Author, Teacher & Activist
• Ricky Rodgers — African American Men of Unity
• Eleanor McNear — The Niemann Family Foundation
• Dale Jeremiah Robinson — Vice President, DuPage County Youth Council
• Dr. Elizabeth Boone — Teacher and Organizational Leadership
• Theodia Gillespie — Quad County Urban League
• Sargent Villagomez — Veterans Affairs Regina Brent — Unity Partnership Tequila Stamps
• Deb Conroy — DuPage County Board
• Madison Collier
The Gala will celebrate scholarship recipients and emerging young leaders, highlighting the next generation of individuals committed to leadership, service, and positive change. Residents, businesses, faith communities, civic organizations, elected officials, educators, and community partners throughout DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Will, and Northwestern Cook Counties are invited to attend and support this milestone celebration.
DATE: Sunday, October 4, 2026
TIME: 5:00 PM
LOCATION: Bobak’s Signature Events, Lisle, Illinois
Tickets, Sponsorships, Donations & Membership go to: DupageCountyNAACP.org
The NAACP DuPage County Branch works to advance civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and promote political, educational, social, health, and economic equality. Through advocacy, education, civic engagement, strategic partnerships, and direct community involvement, the Branch works to strengthen communities and expand opportunity throughout the region.
For press inquiries, contact A. Margret Childress, Communications, Press, Publicity and Technology Chairperson Phone: (630) 296-4796 Email: galanaacpdupage@gmail.com