COME SEE WHAT THE SOUTHSIDE'S LEGACY IS ALL ABOUT WITH A NIGHT OF ELEGANCE AND EXCELLENCE AS WE CELEBRATE, CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND SOUTHSIDE HISTORY. JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE OUR PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE SOUTHSIDE HISTORY.
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Eugene Brown, Sr., a dedicated community leader in Gainesville, Georgia, played a key role in establishing the American Legion Post 521, a vital organization for African-American veterans during the mid-20th century. This post provided support, advocacy, and camaraderie for veterans in the Southside community, addressing their unique needs in an era of segregation. Known for his leadership and commitment to service, Brown inspired unity and progress among local veterans. A "wow" fact: Post 521 became a cornerstone for civic engagement, significantly contributing to the empowerment of the Southside community.
Founding members like John Morrow Jr. and Doc Harrison formed the post, which is now in its 60th year.
The Clara B. McCrary Branch Library, established in the 1950s in Gainesville, Georgia, played a pivotal role in the community's history as a hub for African-American education and culture during segregation. Named after Clara B. McCrary, a local educator and advocate for literacy, the library provided a much-needed resource for African-American residents, offering books, programs, and a safe space for learning and community engagement. Located in the heart of Gainesville, it was funded through local efforts and supported by national initiatives to expand library access. A "wow" fact: it became a symbol of resilience and progress, paving the way for integration of public libraries in the region.
The Beulah Rucker Museum website said she previously had a library named after her, the Clara B. McCrary Library, on the corner of Fair and Hunter Streets, where the Fair Street Community Center is now. The museum said McCrary poured her "blood, sweat and tears into a library where students could go and read" after a tornado damaged Summer High School.
McCrary died in 2009 at the age of 100. Her obituary can be found here.
The board unanimously agreed to dedicate the early learning section of the Gainesville library branch in honor of McCrary, and discussed added a plaque or signage to further the preservation of the heritage of the Fair Street community there.
For over 30 years, Sunshine Seniors, a Gainesville-based nonprofit, has been a lifeline for families in need, distributing food weekly at St. John Baptist Church on E.E. Butler Parkway. Led by President Belinda Dickey since 2014, the organization has grown from serving 125 families weekly to over 325 during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to meet rising demand due to economic challenges. Sunshine Seniors stands out by offering weekly food distributions, unlike many pantries that impose monthly limits. Committed to addressing hunger without discrimination, they prioritize serving seniors, families with children, and the homeless, emphasizing that “people have to eat every day.”
With a dedicated team of around 30 volunteers—ranging in age from young adults to an 87-year-old helper—Sunshine Seniors thrives on community support. The organization partners with local nonprofits like the Georgia Mountain Food Bank and corporations such as Coca-Cola Bottling United and Kings Hawaiian to distribute nearly 373,000 pounds of food in 2022, spending over $44,000 on their mission. Dickey credits their success to faith and community generosity, ensuring no one in need leaves hungry. Food distributions are held every Tuesday at 2 p.m.
Reverend L. C. Teasley, Sr., a distinguished leader and devoted servant of God, serves as the moderator of the Northwestern Baptist Association (NWBA) and the Interdenominational Black Ministers’ Alliance (IBMA). With a pastoral career spanning several scores, Reverend Teasley is deeply committed to fostering unity, spiritual growth, and community engagement among the churches under his leadership. Known for his dynamic preaching and unwavering dedication, he has been instrumental in strengthening partnerships among congregations and advancing initiatives that uplift marginalized communities. His leadership within the NWBA reflects his passion for mentorship, education, and empowering the next generation of clergy and community leaders.
As moderator of the IBMA, Reverend Teasley continues to advocate for social justice, economic development, and holistic ministry in the African-American faith community. He is recognized for his collaborative spirit, working tirelessly to address pressing issues such as poverty, education, and health disparities. Under his guidance, the IBMA has become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in the region. Reverend Teasley’s enduring commitment to his faith and community exemplifies the essence of servant leadership, inspiring those around him to pursue a vision of unity, progress, and unwavering faith.
If you would like to mail in your contribution please download the Gala packet below and follow the directions on the form to send your donation.
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