JACKSON – Choanoke Area Development Association of NC, Inc. (CADA) will celebrate 55 years of service with a reception and fundraising banquet on Friday, April 28 at the Cultural and Wellness Center in Jackson.

This event will highlight the partnerships and shared visions that have made a difference for hundreds of local residents since 1962.

Sallie Surface. Executive Director of CADA shared, “we want to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of many who have been a part of CADA over the years and thank our partners, current and former Board members who shared a vision to provide opportunities

for those in need. Our founding Board members were indeed committed community servants with a vision to make life better for all. That mission has continued for 55 years and CADA today is committed to continue working together with the community to improve the quality of life for all residents.”

The community is invited to join the celebration. Participants who have and are benefitting from CADA services, board members, community partners, and local businesses are encouraged to attend. There will be a reception at 5:30 p.m. and the banquet will begin at 6:30. Tickets are $30. Reserved tables are available for $300.

Donations in honor or memory of Board members or staff are encouraged. For many in our service area, this is an opportunity to pay forward the service CADA has provided. For our local business partners, this is an opportunity to highlight your services.

The event will feature a silent auction and the announcement of the 30 winners of the “Basket of Gifts” raffle. For additional information, contact: 252-539-4155 or ssurface@nc-cada.org.

The banquet will feature keynote speaker Latif Darden, formerly of Halifax County.

Darden studied at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and international studies. In May of last year he earned his Master’s degree in terrorism studies and security policy from American University in Washington, DC. By the end of this year, Latif hopes to begin pursuing his doctoral degree in Public Policy: Biodefense from George Washington University.

He is the co-founder of the Southeast High School – Trojan Alumni and Friends Scholarship. This opportunity allows high school seniors of Southeast Halifax to apply for a $1,000 scholarship fully funded by Latif and two of his closest peers from the Class of 2008.

Long term, Latif aspires to be the first African American Governor of North Carolina.