FLINT, Mich. -- The Flint Branch-NAACP will hold its 37th annual Freedom Fund Gala on Saturday, March 10 at the Genesys Banquet & Conference Center in Grand Blanc Township.
"Steadfast and Immovable" is the 2018 theme and the organization will honor several community members who exemplify that theme with awards. Among the honorees is Leon El-Alamin, founder and executive director of the M.A.D.E. Institute in Flint.
El-Alamin grew up on the north side of Flint in the Pierson Road and Saginaw Street area and got in trouble hanging out with the wrong crowd.
“I’m a former street hustler, involved in gangs," said El-Alamin. "I’ve been shot and left to die," he continued. "And, I went to prison.”
Through it all, El-Alamin proved to be a survivor and someone who learned from his mistakes. He is now a respected community member making the most of his second chance and working to help others with similar stories do the same.
He will receive the Flint Branch-NAACP Unsung Hero Award for 2018 at the organization's annual fundraiser on Saturday.
A sponsors reception begins at 5:00 p.m. Dinner will follow at 6:00 p.m.
State Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo will deliver the keynote address. NBC25/FOX66 morning anchor Mike Woolfolk will serve as emcee.