Thank you for your service
By Michelle Dillon mdillon@jacksonvilleprogress.com Mar 18, 2025
The Fred Douglass Community Development Corporation hosted its annual awards banquet Saturday, honoring community volunteers. The event was hosted at Kingdom Christian Center.
City Councilwoman Letitia Horace, District 1 presented updates on the Lincoln Park renovations and Kenya Etim reminded guests of the remainder of the revitalization plans originally envisioned.
Keynote Speaker Regnal McGowan II challenged the audience to get involved and make a difference.
"Frederick Douglass once said it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men." McGowan said. "That's exactly what this organization is attempting to do."
He presented statistics from Cherokee County that indicated a variety of local needs.
"When you serve, you're not just helping the person in front of you, you're sparking something bigger, inspiring others to do the same," McGowan said. "Just imagine what could happen if each one of us in this room committed to one, small act of kindness every day."
He described real service as showing up even when it's difficult, uncomfortable and nothing to be gained for one's self.
"Go make a world of difference," McGowan concluded. "Love without limits, service without expecting anything in return."
Awards were presented for community service and fundraising and the 2024 scholarship winners were recognized.
Nettie Scott received the Community Service Award.
Scott, according to the event program, dedicated countless ours to addressing hunger concerns within the community, volunteers through her church to serve the elderly and has assisted with fundraising events in support of the FDCDC scholarship program.
"Her enthusiasm, positivity and personal touch inspire those around her to get involved and give back," read a portion of the program.
Although absent, Bobbie J. Smith was named Honorary Parade Marshal for the annual Juneteenth parade. Smith, according to the program, as spent many years encouraging the personal growth of young people, making a lasting impact on countless students.
Two businesses were recognized: Austin Bank, a locally owned and operated financial institution, and Sheppard Mullin, a legal firm operating across the country with additional offices in Brussels, London, Seoul and Shanghai.
The Legacy Dragons Volunteers were recognized, with some of their individual contributions and areas of service noted. Former District 1 Councilman Hubert Robertson was honored for his 20 years of service on the city council.
"We want to let you know that we appreciate the service that you've given. We always want representation on the city council, and you were that representation for 20 years," said Tracey Wallace, FDCDC corresponding secretary.
Top fundraising efforts by LouAnn Williams, Kenya Etim and Sandra Thompson were rewarded individual gifts.
"Their dedication and passion to our vision have been the driving force behind the positive change in our community," said Lucy Lacy, FDCDC treasurer.
FDCDC presented five scholarships in 2024. Three recipients able to attend the banquet - Alicia Boyd, Marcus Harris, II, and Tiana Hall - were recognized, and their accomplishments read aloud. The remaining two, Tristen Perez and Estebiana (J'Nea) Arrington were also mentioned.
The evening closed with the singing of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and the Fred Douglass School song.
