HOUSTON - s4story -- Benefit at the University of Houston Alumni Center raises critical historic preservation funds for Freedmen's Town while honoring community leaders.

HOUSTON, TX — The Freedmen's Town Museum Houston of the Rutherford B. H. Yates Museum Inc. will host its Heritage Brunch & Celebration of Heroes on Thursday, September 26, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the University of Houston Alumni Center in the O'Quinn Great Hall. Emmy Award-winning producer Rushion McDonald serves as Host and Honorary Chair, with renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump attending as a special guest.

The benefit raises vital funds to protect and restore the historic sites, structures, and legacy of Houston's Freedmen's Town, while honoring individuals making a transformative impact on cultural preservation and community leadership.

2026 Celebration of Heroes Award Recipients:

• Legacy of Excellence: Attorney Algenita Scott Davis
• Cultural Heritage Award: Judge Willie E.B. Blackmon; Dr. Amilcar Shabazz; Dr. Kenneth Brown; Dr. Debra Blacklock-Sloan
• Community Champion Award: Pastors Emeritus Rudy & Juanita Rasmus; Martha Whiting-Goddard
• Educational Impact Award: Dr. Bernadette Pruitt
• Distinguished Service Award: Chris Noble
• Youth Inspiration Award: William North IV
• Leadership Excellence Award: Catherine Roberts
• Rising Stars Award: Russell Boyd (Alley Theatre)

"Preserving the historic homes and brick streets of Freedmen's Town requires collective investment," said museum representatives. "This event unites patrons to directly safeguard our history for generations to come."

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Event Details:

• Date & Time: Thursday, September 26, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Location: University of Houston Alumni Center – O'Quinn Great Hall, 3204 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
• Tickets & Sponsorships: https://www.bit.ly/4ptrh9b

Media credentials and interview requests can be submitted to Montalto Communications & Strategies.

About Rutherford B. H. Yates Museum Inc.

Dedicated to preserving, restoring, and educating the public on the cultural sites and legacy of historic Freedmen's Town.