By NAACP Baltimore County Branch
Baltimore County, MD — More than 100 community members, elected officials, students, and civic leaders gathered Feb. 28 at The Promenade in Windsor Mill for the NAACP Baltimore County Branch’s 2026 Freedom Fund Banquet, the organization’s signature annual fundraiser.
The event was widely described by attendees as both inspiring and energizing, highlighted by a powerful keynote message from Darryl Green that called for healing, reconciliation and what he described as “Deep Forgiveness” as a mandate for transformation, unity and collective action.
Green’s moving remarks received a sustained standing ovation, with many participants noting the timeliness of his message and its connection to the event’s theme, “The Fierce Urgency of Now.” Master of ceremonies Dayvon Love, director of public policy for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, incorporated his bold interpretation of that theme throughout the program, challenging attendees to translate urgency into action while also highlighting opportunities for collaboration between NAACP Baltimore County and his organization. His remarks were repeatedly applauded and set a tone of purpose and solidarity for the afternoon.
The program was elevated by three beautiful a cappella renditions by vocalist Michele Horton, including stirring performances of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which brought the audience to its feet and added a deeply moving dimension to the event.
The banquet also recognized outstanding community leadership through several major awards. Community Service Awards were presented to Danny Blount, Bishop Barry Chapman, Katrina Leonard, Peta N. Richkus and Danyell Winkey-Smith, each recognized as pillars of the Baltimore County community whose work reflects sustained commitment to justice, equity and service.
The Keeper of the Flame Award was presented to Roland N. Patterson Jr., president of NAACP Baltimore County, for his leadership and steadfast dedication to advancing the branch’s mission.
Trailblazer Awards were presented to Baltimore County Fire Department Chief Joseph W. Dixon and Raymond Jones Jr., a junior at Parkville High School, underscoring the branch’s commitment to recognizing both established leaders and emerging young changemakers.
Each awardee received a commemorative crystal plaque along with a citation from County Executive Kathy Klausmeier.
A special moment in the program recognized Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Myriam Rogers. President Patterson presented Superintendent Rogers with flowers in honor of her 30-year career in public education, her significant professional accomplishments, including strengthening and improving Baltimore County schools, and her recently announced retirement. The tribute was warmly received by the audience.
Youth engagement was a visible and celebrated aspect of the event. As a result of the Branch’s new “Next Generation” initiative and the generosity of multiple sponsors, student representatives from NAACP chapters at Parkville, Overlea, Perry Hall and Owings Mills high schools, and from Towson University were able to attend and participate. Their presence reflected the organization’s strong focus on cultivating the next generation of leaders.
Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier, represented by Director of Community Engagement Alonso Williams, presented an official proclamation declaring Feb. 28, 2026, as NAACP Baltimore County Freedom Fund Day. Additional citations were presented on behalf of Sen. Charles Sydnor and Sen. Ben Brooks.
Elected officials in attendance included Sen. Ben Brooks, Delegate Jennifer White-Holland, Councilman Pat Young, Councilman Izzy Patoka and Councilman Julian E. Jones Jr. Numerous members of the Baltimore County Democratic Central Committee were also present, along with several candidates for public office, including Nick Stewart (County Executive), Sarah David (County State’s Attorney), Artie Huffman (Delegate, District 6), Marsha Riley-Savage (Delegate, District 8), Dr. Danita Tolson (Council District 2), Makeda Scott (Council District 3), and Sharonda Huffman (Council District 8).
The afternoon featured music provided by community partner Ervin “DJ Nyce” Bradley, and catering by Appetites by RJ, contributing to a warm and celebratory atmosphere. Event programs were printed by Priority Printing.
Branch leaders emphasized that the strong turnout and enthusiastic response reflected growing community engagement and support for NAACP’s work in Baltimore County.
“This event demonstrated the power of community coming together with purpose,” organizers noted. “The message was clear. This is a moment that calls for unity, courage, and collective action.”
For more than 50 years, NAACP Baltimore County has stood up and spoken out for political, educational, social, and economic equity, while confronting the implicit and institutional racism that persists in our communities. Through advocacy, education and community engagement, the Branch continues to advance justice and equity throughout Baltimore County. The Freedom Fund Banquet serves as NAACP Baltimore County’s primary annual fundraiser, supporting programs focused on civil rights advocacy, youth leadership development, education, and community empowerment throughout the county.