The 53^rd Annual Freedom Fund Celebration will take place at 3 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Temple Bethel El, at 3927 Bridge Road.

The NAACP event marks the commemoration of the 53 years of service that many of the original pioneering leaders provided. Additionally, the occasion will serve as a platform to recognize outstanding citizens from Suffolk and surrounding communities. Guests include legislators, public servants and civil rights advocates.

The featured speaker this year is D. Yvonne Rivers with Phoebe Marketing Group. Rivers will deliver an inspirational message about entrepreneurship in the 21^st century and how and why civil rights remain central to promoting minority businesses.

Featured honorees and their areas of expertise will include: Brooke Mills (emerging leader); LaTroy Brinkley (small minority-owned business owner); Dr. Cynthia Burwell (Norfolk State University, minority health innovation); Valerie Boykins (public service pioneer); Joette Claude (small minority-owned business owner); Geraldine T. Boone and Julius E. McCollough (musical arts legacy); Dr. Kasey Davis (medical innovation); Lowell Evans (health disparities pioneer); Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo Frost (technology innovation); Ida McPherson (civic leader/pioneer); Councilman Lue Ward (small minority-owned business owner); and Nansemond/Isle of Wight Sunday School Union (historical legacy).

Tickets are available for $50 per person at 678-748-0705, or comcap1@gmail.com, or 944-8962, or reach out to the ticket committee.

A limited amount of free transportation to the event is available for those who need it, courtesy of Mike Duman Auto Sales. Those who are in need of this service should contact Mary Hill at 685-1730 or Rosalind Lacy at 994-8962.