The Power of Us: How MOT NAACP and Community Leaders are Shaping Delaware’s Future

Building Community, Creating Change

On the latest episode of Out & About with Antionette, host Antionette Blake spotlights the passionate work of local leaders in Delaware’s Middletown, Odessa, and Townsend region—affectionately known as the MOT area. This episode, featuring Lisa Bynum, President of the MOT chapter of the NAACP, and Gemma Lowrey, Silent Auction Chair for the 2025 Freedom Fund Gala, delves deep into the vital role of collective action, the power of giving back, and the enduring strength found in unity.

The NAACP’s Mission: Past, Present, and Urgency for Now

Lisa Bynum opens the conversation with an important reminder: the NAACP is the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, but one that remains resolutely focused on building a fair, equitable future for all. As Lisa shares, “Our mission is simple but powerful—to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights for all people and to eliminate race-based discrimination.” This mission, rooted over a century ago, continues to demand action as new challenges emerge.

Locally, the MOT NAACP has made significant strides—awarding nearly $10,000 in scholarships to students, organizing voter registration drives, and partnering with organizations ranging from faith groups to Black Greek-letter organizations known collectively as the Divine Nine. These efforts not only cultivate leadership and opportunity but ensure that every voice in the growing MOT area has a seat at the table.

The Power of Partnership: Gemma Lowrey’s Call to Action

Gemma Lowrey’s journey into advocacy began with a desire for meaningful impact. Having moved to the MOT area after many years in northern Delaware, Gemma emphasizes the value of joining forces: “Connecting with organizations, especially civic organizations, is all about impact. We can each do something, but together we can do something amazing.”

She encourages newcomers and long-standing residents alike to get involved—pointing out that membership fees are low, and the NAACP’s door is open to those ready to contribute time, talent, or resources. The organization’s focus on tangible outcomes ensures that every act of volunteering or donation—large or small—contributes directly to change.

The Freedom Fund Gala: A Night to Celebrate, Give, and Grow

The centerpiece of the MOT NAACP’s annual calendar is the Freedom Fund Gala, scheduled for September 19th. More than just a fundraiser, the Gala is a celebration of community spirit and a showcase of what “the power of us” can accomplish. Lisa and Gemma describe an inspiring evening filled with live entertainment, fine dining, awards honoring local changemakers, and the ever-popular silent auction.

This year, proceeds benefit the 2026 scholarship fund and critical community initiatives. Opportunities to support abound: from purchasing individual tickets or a table, to business sponsorships, to donating items for the silent auction. As Gemma notes, every contribution matters, from $10 to a major sponsorship—helping to fund scholarships and ensure local students have the resources to pursue education, business, or trade ambitions.

Why Giving Back Matters: Building a Lasting Legacy

Both Lisa and Gemma stress that advocacy is as much about today as it is about tomorrow. Lisa, a parent to teenagers, is keenly aware of the changing landscape and the increasing stakes for young people. “It makes it even more important that we have money to give away for scholarships to help children,” she shares, reminding listeners that supporting youth now lessens future dependency and builds resilience.

The importance of leaving a legacy—ensuring a better world for the next generation—is a recurring theme. “We always want our kids to do better than us,” Gemma says. “With the things going on right now, they’re not going to if we give up.”

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you attend the Gala, sponsor a table, donate to the silent auction, or simply spread the word, there are countless ways to make an impact. The MOT NAACP is intentional about supporting local, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses—creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment throughout the region.

And for organizations like the Divine Nine, a little friendly competition never hurts: the Greek organization with the most members in attendance wins a $1,000 donation to their local scholarship fund!

Words of Wisdom: Why Not Lead, Why Not Act?

The show closes with each guest sharing personal motivation. Gemma urges listeners to step out of their comfort zone—asking “Why not?” and challenging self-imposed barriers. Lisa turns to a favorite verse: “Let us not grow weary in well doing, for we will reap the harvest if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9). Together, they embody the message that community progress thrives on perseverance and collective hope.

The Power of Us

Out & About with Antoinette’s episode on the MOT NAACP and Freedom Fund Gala is a rallying call: when communities unite, their impact multiplies—building a legacy that will endure for generations. For more details, donation links, and event info, visit the MOT NAACP’s website or social channels. As Antionette says, “The power of us, people. The power of us.”