The AACC Kick-Off brings successful Gary's Challenge, matching grant program

The African American Cultural Center, Inc. Founder and Executive Board members proudly announce the results of Gary’s Challenge grant. Our sincere appreciation is extended to Rev. Gary McCollum and all who accepted his challenge.

When he was asked what inspired him to make this pledge, he commented:

“It was my honor to attend the recent capital campaign kickoff event for the Virginia Beach African American Cultural Center (AACC) and to issue a $12,000 matching challenge grant to those in attendance. As I said to the audience that evening, the number 12 has significance because historically there were 12 African American neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. My wife Cookie and I are delighted that our challenge helped bring in additional donors who contributed an additional $14,979 for this very worthy cause!

We truly hope these combined contributions of $26,979 will create the momentum to fully fund the design, construction, and operation of the AACC. When we recall our regions not too-distant past and our previous generation's fight for freedom and equality, the AACC will serve as a powerful resource to teach, facilitate discussion, and tell the true story of African Americans in our nation’s first region. Gandhi once said, ‘Truth is by nature self-evident. As soon as you remove the cobwebs of ignorance that surround it, it shines clear.’

We invite everyone throughout the City of Virginia Beach and the region to join us in this effort to remove the ‘cobwebs’ by supporting the AACC. Together, we can build a priceless gift that will be valued by our children and generations to come.”

To donate, please visit our donation page at www.aaccvb.org