NAACP New Hanover County Branch announces 2026 Freedom Fund Banquet

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The NAACP New Hanover County Branch will hold its 2026 Freedom Fund Banquet on Saturday, Sept. 12, at Hotel Ballast in Wilmington.

The event, described by the branch as its premier annual fundraising and recognition event, will begin at 7 p.m. in the hotel’s Grand Ballroom.

The Rev. Erica Smith will serve as the featured speaker.

This year’s Blue and Gold Affair will be held under the theme, “A Legacy of Strength, A Future of Promise.”

The banquet is expected to bring together community leaders, elected officials, business partners, faith leaders, educators, advocates and supporters from across the region.

Proceeds from the event will support the branch’s work related to civil rights, educational equity, economic opportunity, voter engagement and social justice efforts in New Hanover County and surrounding communities.

The branch is inviting individuals, businesses, organizations, churches and other community partners to support the event through sponsorships, table purchases, advertising and ticket sales.

Organizers said proceeds will also help sustain programs focused on equality, civic engagement, educational advancement and community empowerment.

Information about sponsorship packages, advertising opportunities in the Digital Freedom Fund Souvenir Journal and ticket purchases is available through the NAACP New Hanover County Branch’s 2026 Freedom Fund Banquet registration and sponsorship information.