NAACP promotes community
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WARREN -- The youth of the community are the future and it is important that other generations support and work with them so they can carry on what current and past generations have done and are doing for the benefit of all, said Pastor Vincent Peterson II of Third Baptist Church of Youngstown.
Peterson was the guest speaker at the Trumbull County Branch of the NAACP's annual community and scholarship awards luncheon Saturday at Enzo's where local high school seniors were presented scholarships so they can continue with their goals and career plans.
Peterson said the message is how important it is for everyone to come together and work together.
"We need to look past our differences and learn how we can all work together to achieve a better community,'' he said.
Peterson said the young people are the future of the country.
"The message to them is to become educated and successful in whatever they do and then help carry the ball in the future. It is important for all of us to help pave the way for them just as others helped us. None of us got here on our own and we hope to contribute to helping them," Peterson said.
He said it is very important to vote and let your voice be heard, but also to continue after that being involved and active in the community. Peterson said people can look past political differences and come together for the benefit of all.
"It is a gem to have an NAACP here in Warren. It is exciting to see such a great event like this. We all need to put our heads together and do the work and good things like this happen," Peterson said.
He said in addition to the scholarship recipients, the event also honored those who have contributed to the community.
Peterson said the leadership of the NAACP is dedicated to the youth of the community.
He told the scholarship recipients he would always be available to them to provide advice.
"I want to see you be successful in what you do in your life. The young people here today are the reasons we have to do our work to make it easier for them and when they advance, they can help make it easier for someone else," Peterson said.
Annette McCoy, president of the local NAACP chapter, said the theme of the event this year is "We are the People."
She said it is very important to get people involved in not just voter turnout, but engaged in their communities. McCoy said there are a lot of concerns in our communities and working together can help make a difference.
Scholarship recipients included Zoe Tynes-McConnell of Cortland, a Lakeview High School graduate who plans to study music/drama; Dominic Salero-McCoy of Warren, a Lakeview High School graduate who plans to study sports medicine; Channa Wells, who is attending the University of Cincinnati; and Ayanna Provitt, who is attending Alabama A&M pursuing a law degree.
McCoy said the NAACP also gave a tribute to seniors who influenced the growth of youth.
Also presented were Civil Engagement awards to Gwendolyn Morgan, Jennie Johnson- Price and Dr. Robert Stringer.
McCoy said Morgan was recognized for music and her involvement with musical programs and events in the community; Price for being a black historian educator ensuring that African American history is not forgotten or diminished; and Stringer for civic engagement as pastor of New Freedom Missionary Baptist Church in Warren.