'These mighty men': AACS honors volunteers

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

Called “supermen” and “mighty men,” the Men of AACS were honored with a luncheon and certificates of appreciation Monday at the African American Cultural Society Center on U.S. 1 in Bunnell.

The mission of the African American Cultural Society Inc., a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization which started in 1991, is to preserve and perpetuate the cultural heritage of African Americans through social, educational, artistic and intellectual activities.

Men of AACS Inc. consists of members who formed their own organization in 2007 to support the society.
“The Men of AACS are truly the wind beneath our wings,” said Treasurer Lynda Baten at the beginning of the luncheon. “I attest that these mighty men have kept this center intact.”

The Men of AACS provide manpower for such things as building repairs, maintenance, and painting, and also contribute financially by helping the center pay down the mortgage and buy items such as new flooring.

“They give of themselves so much,” Baten said.

Jay Foxe, president of the Men of AACS, said the role that AACS plays in keeping cultural heritage alive is important and they concern themselves mostly with the younger generation.

“We try to be their guidance for what they should be focusing on now and in the future,” he said.

He said just like historic buildings that are torn down, culture and history are forgotten if people don’t talk about it.

“It’s important that people know where they came from. There are a lot of adults that can use history lessons, too,” he said with a smile.

Diana McKie-Robinson, center administrator, said she also wanted to recognize the wives who stand by the men and support them.

The AACS has a membership of about 300. Activities include classes and film presentations on culture and history, outreach educational programs at schools, helping and encouraging students to attend college and involvement with heritage festivals and other events.

Find AACS on Facebook by searching for “African American Cultural Society, Inc. (Official).”