The Carver Center celebrated Black History Month with an event on Wednesday, February 20. The Center opened its doors to 150 parents, neighbors and civic leaders who came to honor John Reavis, former president & life-member of the NAACP. Mr. Reavis was also the Executive Director of Carver from 1990-1999. He was instrumental in acquiring the YMCA building in order for the Center to expand and modernize its operation. Carver’s Sr. Manager of Children's Programs & Community Relations, Janett Grose, kicked off the night and introduced the new Chief Operating Officer/Executive Director, Joseph Kwasniewski.
Board member Dominic Bencivenga presented Mr. Reavis with a plaque in appreciation of his dedication and service to the Port Chester community. Incoming NAACP President, Joan Grangenois-Thomas, was onhand and thanked Carver for the work they’re doing to improve the lives of the people it serves.
The African Community Drummers opened the evening with a stirring performance. Also in attendance were the 120 students in Carver’s after school and teen programs. Dressed in traditional African clothing, the children honored Black History Month with dances and readings including “The Dance of Life”, “A Box of Crayons” and “Influential African-Americans”. Parents Christine Xaba-Caulker & Sima Xaba also got into the act, treating the audience to a Traditional African Song & dance from their home of Swaziland.
