With a goal of creating a better future for young people, one of the biggest events for the Sampson County Branch of the NAACP is coming soon.
The “Event for a Better Future for our Youth” program is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Sampson County Agri-Exposition Center, 414 Warsaw Road, Clinton. Dwight Miller, chairperson for the program, is looking forward to the event, which has been successful for many years. It gives students a chance to meet and discuss political or social issues.
“I think it’s a great time for the youth all across the community to come together and talk community issues,” Miller said. “We try to address all types of issues and help school systems and educators.”
Some of the highlights includes motivational speakers, entertainment and leadership sessions. Some of the scheduled participants include Dr. Felice Carlton, a registered nurse and certified health coach; and Chasity Melvin, former WNBA player and book author; and representatives from the Clinton Police Department and the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office.
Youths will also have an opportunity to become a part of community forums including school employees and Larry Sutton, youth chair for the Sampson County NAACP.
The NAACP’s banquet featuring guest speaker Marcus Bass will be held later at 6 p.m. in Agri-Exposition Center. Bass is the founder of the Youth Leadership Institute, “Camp Lead-Up.” The theme for 2017 is “Parents and Teachers – Valuing Education for a More Just Society.”
All donations during the youth event will go toward scholarships. This year, the NAACP awarded about six scholarships to scholars who are now enrolled in college. Topics will focus on classroom discipline, supporting organizations that helps youths, and a session titled “What do I see when I look in the mirror.”
The event is open to all youths in fifth grade, middle school and high school. Refreshments such as hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and cookies will be served during the event.
For more information, contact miller at 910-592-4620 or by email at [email protected].