A Night of Reflection, Recognition, and Renewed Commitment

Photo of the President of the NAACP Louisville Branch, Raymond M. Burse, and the CEO/ President of Dare to Care, Vincent James

12/15/2025 NAACP Louisville Branch End of Year and General Meeting Holiday Gathering at Dare To Care.

A special gift to Past President Raoul Cunningham

By Raymond M. Burse, President, NAACP Louisville Branch

As President of the NAACP Louisville Branch, I have the honor of witnessing the strength, resilience, and dedication of our members every day. However, there are moments when that commitment becomes evident when the work, the people, and the purpose come together in a way that reminds us why this organization has endured for over a century. Our Annual Meeting & Christmas Reception was one of those moments.

This gathering was more than a year‑end tradition. It was a celebration of progress, a recognition of service, and a recommitment to the mission that binds us.

Reflections from the President’s Report

In my report, I shared the work we have advanced this year — work rooted in justice, equity, and the belief that every Louisvillian deserves dignity and opportunity.

Our branch made meaningful strides in:

• Strengthening civic engagement and ensuring our community remains informed and empowered

• Expanding partnerships that amplify our reach and deepen our impact

• Supporting youth and emerging leaders, ensuring the next generation is prepared to carry the torch

• Advocating for fairness in education, economic opportunity, and public policy

• Reinforcing accountability and transparency within our own operations

None of this progress happens by accident. It happens because our members show up, our committees work tirelessly, and our leadership remains focused on the mission.

Honoring a Legacy: Past President Raoul Cunningham

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was presenting a special gift to Past President Raoul Cunningham. His decades of service — not only to this branch, but to the national movement for civil rights — have shaped the landscape of justice in Louisville.

Raoul’s leadership is a reminder that progress requires persistence. His legacy continues to guide us, challenge us, and inspire us. Recognizing him was not only appropriate, but it was essential.

Celebrating Excellence: Claudia’s Louisville Urban League Award

We also took a moment to celebrate Claudia, who was recently honored by the Louisville Urban League for her outstanding contributions to our community. Her recognition is well‑deserved and reflects the spirit of service that defines our branch.

Claudia’s work embodies the values we stand for: courage, compassion, and a commitment to lifting others. We are proud of her and grateful for the example she sets.

Gratitude for the Committees Who Made This Gathering Possible

Events like this do not come together on their own. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the committees whose dedication made the evening a success:

• Membership Committee

• Communications Committee

• Community Coordination Committee

• Hospitality and Events Team

• Executive Committee members who supported planning and logistics

Your work — often behind the scenes — ensures that our members feel welcomed, informed, and connected. Thank you for your service.

A Special Thank‑You to Dare to Care and Vincent James

We were honored to host this year’s gathering at Dare to Care, and I want to personally thank Vincent James, President & CEO, for opening their space to us.

Dare to Care’s mission aligns deeply with our own: serving community, addressing inequity, and ensuring that every family has what they need to thrive. Vincent’s leadership and generosity made this gathering possible, and we are grateful for the partnership.

Looking Ahead with Purpose

As we move into a new year, I am encouraged by what I witnessed in that room — unity, joy, determination, and a shared belief in the work ahead.

We honor our past.
We celebrate our present.
And we commit to a future where justice is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality for every member of our community.

Thank you for your continued support, your service, and your belief in the mission of the NAACP Louisville Branch. Together, we will continue to make a difference.

Photo of our Past President Raoul Cunningham and the Current President