HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Local nonprofit Men 2 Be held their annual gala in Hopkinsville on Aug. 3, raising nearly $100,000 for the organization.

“The purpose of the Men 2 Be gala was to share the story of how Men 2 Be is helping build successful young men,” said LaDessa Lewis, the founder of the nonprofit. This is the fourth year of the gala, with the theme of Together We Can.

Lewis created Men 2 Be with the goal of empowering young black men in the community to reach their full academic, social, and personal potential. With support from her husband, volunteers, and mentors, Lewis has created a powerful brotherhood among youth in Hopkinsville.

Money raised during the gala will be the main source of funding for the organization for the year, allowing them to provide various programming like tutoring, uniforms, meals, trips, and scholarships to participating youth. With 68 boys currently in the program, the cost for each individual adds up to about $1,200.

At this year’s black-tie gala, over 300 supporters attended along with members of Men 2 Be. Three young men were awarded scholarships at a value of $2,000, $1,500, and $500. Seven distinguished workers in the community were also honored for being steadfast and successful in their careers.

Men 2 Be runs on donations and volunteers, to find out how to be a part of the organization or continue to give funds, visit the Men 2 Be website.

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