THE FOLLOWING IS A LAURA LEE FELLOWSHIP HOUSE RELEASE
Want to make an investment in the future of Vermilion County? The Board of Directors at Laura Lee Fellowship House (LLFH) is excited to announce the launch of a new fundraising campaign aimed at supporting operational costs to enhance student programs and community involvement.
Laura Lee Fellowship House, located just north of Danville’s city center, is a community haven committed to uplifting Danville’s underserved, multicultural families. This initiative will continue the legacy of investment in youth development, building on the organization’s rich history of over 81 years of growth and service.
“This campaign is more than just a fundraiser—it is an investment in the future,” says Dwight Lucas, who was himself deeply influenced by his years attending after-school programs at Laura Lee. “By contributing, donors will help shape the lives of young individuals, providing them with the support and opportunities they need to grow.”
Since its inception, Laura Lee has been committed to fostering education and personal growth. This campaign seeks to fund essential operations, including staffing for after-school tutoring, curriculum development, and mentoring, while also providing a safe and supportive space for children in the evenings. The goal is to offer resources that bolster self-esteem and provide mentorship.
Community Kickoff Events:
The community is invited to two special events at Laura Lee Fellowship House at 212 East Williams Street, Danville, IL 61832, to kick off the campaign:
May 16 – Meet and Greet from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
A drop-in social gathering where alumni, business partners, and supporters can reconnect. Attendees will have the opportunity to sign a memory book and complete forms for the commemorative “Memory Bricks.” This homecoming-style event will feature historic photos and shared stories, allowing participants to journey “Back Down Memory Lane.”
May 17 – Annual Dinner at 6:00 PM | Doors Open at 5:00 PM | Dinner Tickets $35
An elegant evening featuring musical entertainment, a keynote address from Jozetta Robinson, Chief of Staff, Blacks in Government in Washington, DC, testimonials, a brief history overview, and special recognitions.
Why Support This Campaign?
Supporters of this campaign will help carry forward the legacy of Laura Lee’s impact, ensuring that new generations of students and future community leaders have the resources they need to succeed. Contributions will help open doors for more success stories, backed by a board with a track record of strong leadership and credibility.
Lucas understands the value of providing students with access to successful, committed adults and opportunities to visit new places inside and outside of the community. “When you don’t have exposure, you limit your belief system to what you see every day,” he says.
Brick Wall Dedication Opportunity
A special highlight of the campaign is the creation of a commemorative Brick Wall, designed in collaboration with Danville’s Hall of Fame Plaques and Signs. This installation along the main hallway will feature beautifully designed brick-sized plaques. For a cost of $100, donors can customize a brick with:
A name
A dedication in honor or memory of a loved one
A poem or inspirational message
Larger naming opportunities are available for key areas such as the kitchen and gym.
Respected Leadership
LLFH board members include President Dwight Lucas, Vice-President Pastor Thomas Miller, Co-Secretaries Ms. Brittany Morris-Randle and Mrs. Phearn Butler, Treasurer Ms. Diana Williams, Assistant Treasurer Ms. Laura Brooks, along with Pastor Franklin Bourn, Ms. Jacqueline Rose, Mr. Alvarez Dixon, Mr. Frederick Whitman, Mr. G. Asim Osaze, Ms. Mary Catherine Roberson, Mr. Trent Sherfield, Mr. Harvey “Skip” Truex, Ms. Christine Fitzsimmons and Board Member Emeritus Dr. David L. Fields.
For more information, contact Dwight Lucas, Laura Lee Fellowship House Association Board President at 217-474-8071 or dalvin1149@gmail.com, Brenda Brown, Laura Lee Fellowship House Association Office Manager, at 217-474-4639 or becie@comcast.net, and Ivora Regina Lucas at (615) 420-0033 or Dalsgal26@gmail.com (Brick Memory Wall).
