Mainland/Pleasantville NAACP To Shine Spotlight on Community Champions at Freedom Fund Luncheon
BY CLYDE HUGHES | AC JosepH Media
PLEASANTVILLE — The Mainland/Pleasantville NAACP will bring together civic leaders, advocates and educators at its 2026 Freedom Fund Luncheon, to be held Oct. 24 at The Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City.
The luncheon will be held at The Claridge Conference Center with doors opening at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon starting at 12:30 p.m. The annual event, designed to honor individuals who exemplify service, justice, and community uplift, will highlight the strength and resilience of South Jersey’s diverse communities.
Longtime community leader Olivia Caldwell is the president of the Mainland-Pleasantville branch NAACP. The chapter is one of two branches of the internationally known civil rights organization located in Atlantic County.
Celebrating Leadership Across Every Corner of the Community
This year’s slate of honorees reflects a wide spectrum of impact — from entrepreneurship and education to immigration advocacy, youth leadership, and grassroots organizing. Each award recipient was recognized for their dedication to advancing equity and strengthening the fabric of the region.
Entrepreneur Award: Yaeko Breech Honored for her innovation, business leadership, and commitment to community-centered economic growth.
Youth Entrepreneur Award: James H. Gillespie III Celebrated as a rising leader whose entrepreneurial spirit inspires peers and expands opportunities for young people.
Local Government Award: Supt. Maureen Bugdon Recognized for her leadership in public service and her efforts to ensure responsive, community-focused governance.
Grass Roots Award: Bashira Khan Honored for her tireless organizing, advocacy, and hands-on work addressing community needs at the ground level.
Education Award: Tamar S. Lasure-Owens Celebrated for her dedication to empowering students and strengthening educational pathways for families across the region.
Immigration Awareness Award: Irvin Moreno-Rodriguez & Cristian Moreno-Rodriguez Recognized for their advocacy, outreach, and leadership in supporting immigrant communities and advancing awareness around immigration issues.
Outstanding Clergy Award: Rev. Kevin D. Ragland Honored for his spiritual leadership and commitment to serving the community through faith-driven action.
Youth-in-Action Award: Jalen Scott Celebrated for his activism, leadership, and positive influence among South Jersey youth.
Social Justice Award: Tracey Sloan Recognized for her unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and community empowerment.
Presidents Award: Marcus R. Wilson Honored for exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the mission of the NAACP.
A Day of Purpose, Pride, and Community Strength
The luncheon serves not only as a celebration but also as a reminder of the ongoing work required to advance civil rights and social justice.
The Mainland/Pleasantville NAACP emphasized its gratitude to each award recipient, noting that their contributions continue to shape the region’s future.
“We honor you and celebrate the work you continue to do,” the organization shared in its announcement, a message that will resonate throughout the ballroom as families, supporters, and community partners gather in solidarity.
A Milestone of Service in Atlantic County
The Mainland/Pleasantville NAACP is celebrating its 65th year as an organization, founded in 1961. Organizers said they are proud of what the civil rights organization has been able to provide to the local community over that time.
“For 65 years, our branch has carried forward the mission of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference: advancing opportunity, challenging discrimination, and working toward a more just and inclusive future for all,” said the branch in a statement recently on Facebook.
“We honor the generations who built this legacy, and we invite you to help shape what comes next.”
The New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP oversees more than 30 branches, including 11 in South Jersey, from Toms River to Cape May County.
For more information on the luncheon, tickets and sponsorships, go to the Mainland/Pleasantville NAACP Facebook page.
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