2007 SPECIAL RECOGNITION Rev. Dr. Don J. Hayes

Rev. Dr. Don J. Hayes is a native of Jacksonville, Texas. He was educated in the Texas public school system, later he furthered his education at Norfolk State University Norfolk Va and Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton New Jersey.

Dr. Hayes is married to the former Annie Jones. God has blessed them with four children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

His pastoral experience includes serving congregations in the Carolinas, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia. Currently, Dr. Hayes serves as pastor of Springfield Baptist Church Mechanicsville, VA. This energetic man of God is active in many areas of the community and provides unprecedented leadership through his church. Some of the leadership positions he holds includes serving as President of the Chickahominy Division of Clergy. He is also a member of the Chickahominy Baptist Association and the Hanover Unit of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Countless groups call him for advice, lectures, teaching and preaching. He is a true servant of God and loves to serve mankind. His motto is based on Paul's writing to the Philippians in chapter four verse thirteen, I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Elizabeth Waddy, President

I am honored to welcome you to our annual Freedom Fund Banquet on behalf of the Hanover County Unit and to thank you for sharing in this esteemed occasion with us.

As we continue to reject hatred and intolerance that would seek to divide us, embrace our diversity and draw strength from the dreams and values we all share as human beings.

I have no doubt that this Annual Freedom Fund Banquet will ensure yet again that our feet are set firmly on the path towards our goals of full and equal inclusion of all people in Hanover County and the metropolitan area. We had many discrimination cases that we challenged during 2006 and 2007.

To our honorees, the Reverend Dr. Don Hayes and Mrs. Doris Jones, thanks for the tireless hours that each of you has given to this organization and the entire community.

Just a few of our many accomplishments during 2006 - 2007 are

• Our membership is on the rise, thanks to our membership chair, life membership chair, and the membership committee, and each of you for your diligent services;

• We met with our School Board Superintendent and School Board Members to discuss the disparities in education and other concerns additional meetings are scheduled;

• Our 2006 King Rev. Larry Owens of Bethany Baptist Church (his wife represented) Hanover County at the Virginia State Convention in October 2006 and was first Runner-up in the state;

• All of our officers and committee chairs received mandatory training handed down from the National Office;

• Handled numerous discrimination cases and cases not classed as discrimination referring some to the State Office for resolutions

• Participated in Lobby Day at the General Assembly both Youth and Adults,

• Representation from the Unit attends the School Board, Planning Commission, and Board of Supervisors meetings;

• One Health workshop was held within the County; and I am serving as Area IV Chair (areas include Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, and Richmond City)

• I am serving as a member of Virginia State Conference Executive Committee.

Again, I say thank you for your attendance and participation today and for your help and patronage during the year . With warmest and personal regards.