Black Wall Street AVL, a nonprofit dedicated to encouraging, supporting, and publicizing the work of Black-owned area business, will host the 3rd Annual Black Legacy Awards at 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Asheville Community Theater.
This year’s event holds special significance as the community comes together to rebuild after the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, which left Black Wall Street AVL and surrounding areas heavily damaged.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of resilience remains strong. The Black Legacy Awards will celebrate local Black leaders who continue to pave the way for progress, honoring their dedication to economic development, social change, education, health, and community empowerment.
This year’s honorees include:
- Gene Ettison—GO PLACES, supporting young adults in high-crime, high-poverty areas through work-based learning
- Michael Hayes—Umoja Health Wellness and Justice Collective, leading in culturally responsive peer support services
- Renée White—East End/Valley Street Community, advocating for local community voices
- Stephanie Swepson-Twitty—Eagle Market Streets Development Corporation, driving economic development in Asheville and Old Fort, NC
- Shirley Whitesides—Delta House, Inc., impacting over 20,000 students through arts education
- Tracey Greene-Washington—Founder of CoThinkk and Indigo Innovation Group, leading in social change philanthropy.
In addition to these honorees, community members have voted for other outstanding individuals who have been nominated for their everyday contributions.
Visit blackwallstreetavl.com to purchase tickets and for more details.
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