This weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the NAACP FSC Quarterly Meeting, and I was present and engaged for both days. I left feeling recharged, encouraged, and more clear about what it’s going to take for us to grow and strengthen our branch here in West Volusia.
One of my biggest takeaways was learning the true membership goal: 10% of the Black/African American community within your branch jurisdiction. When you put that into perspective, West Volusia’s membership goal is closer to 1,700 people. That’s a bold number, but it’s also a reminder of our responsibility—and our potential impact—when we organize with intention and build year-round engagement.
Another powerful session focused on veteran benefits, and the information I’m excited to bring back to the branch. Many families do not realize the burial benefits available for veterans, including the ability for a veteran’s child with special needs to be buried next to them. This isn’t just policy—it’s dignity, honor, and support our families deserve to know about.
We also had real conversations about civic engagement and consistency. One message that hit home for me was this: we have to show up to school board meetings consistently—not just when we’re outraged. Every meeting matters. Being present allows us to gather real-time information, build relationships, and bring updates back to the branch so we can strategize proactively instead of always reacting.
I also spoke with the 1st VP of the Florida State Conference, and we discussed the conference returning to a rotation schedule for quarterly meetings. Some branches, especially in the Panhandle, are driving five hours or more to Orlando year after year. Returning to rotation is a more equitable approach and gives branches the opportunity to host, highlight their communities, and bring statewide attention to the work happening in their area.
Lastly, this is an election year. Florida’s governorship is on the ballot, and that role appoints key decision-makers in education. Our branch must develop a strong government campaign because the stakes are too high to sit on the sidelines.
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Rakeem Ford currently serves as Membership Chair of our Branch.
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