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Community Corner

Homegrown Heroes of Long Island: A Dynamic Celebration of Local Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Community

Homegrown Heroes of Long Island set for Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 1 South Avenue, Garden City, NY.

Homegrown Heroes of Long Island aims to honor those whose leadership and innovation are strengthening Long Island’s economic fabric while fostering equity and opportunity throughout the region.
Homegrown Heroes of Long Island aims to honor those whose leadership and innovation are strengthening Long Island’s economic fabric while fostering equity and opportunity throughout the region.

Garden City, NY — The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., proudly announces its upcoming fundraising and community recognition event, Homegrown Heroes of Long Island set for Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 1 South Avenue, Garden City, NY.

Participation and support levels are accessible and inclusive, with giving tiers ranging from Friends of the Cause ($20) to Visionaries ($100) — each offering unique ways to show support and get involved. Registration, sponsorship, and donation opportunities are available now at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/homegrown-heroes-of-long-island.

This inaugural celebration spotlights the entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and community impact of Long Island’s small business owners, civic leaders, creatives, and changemakers. The event brings together business leaders, advocates, supporters, and local residents for an inspiring afternoon of recognition, networking, and celebration.

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Homegrown Heroes of Long Island aims to honor those whose leadership and innovation are strengthening Long Island’s economic fabric while fostering equity and opportunity throughout the region. Proceeds from the event directly benefit programs that expand business education, mentorship, workforce development, and access to capital for minority-owned and underserved businesses.

Attendees can expect:

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  • Special recognition of community leaders and entrepreneurs who are making significant contributions to economic growth and social impact.
  • Engaging live programming and opportunities for attendees to connect with small business founders, funders, and advocates from across the region.
  • Meaningful community engagement and a shared commitment to expanding economic opportunity for all.

Participation and support levels are accessible and inclusive, with giving tiers ranging from Friends of the Cause ($20) to Visionaries ($100) — each offering unique ways to show support and get involved. Registration, sponsorship, and donation opportunities are available now at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/homegrown-heroes-of-long-island.

Leadership Voices

“Homegrown Heroes of Long Island is about recognizing the power of local leadership and investing in the entrepreneurs who are building businesses from the ground up,” said Rose Ward. “When we support small businesses, we strengthen families, communities, and the regional economy. This event allows us to celebrate our heroes while expanding the resources needed to help more businesses grow and thrive.”

“Homegrown Heroes of Long Island is about recognizing the power of local leadership and investing in the entrepreneurs who are building businesses from the ground up. When we support small business owners, we strengthen families, enrich communities, and build a more vibrant regional economy,” said Rose Ward, Vice President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

About the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. - The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunity and equity for minority and underserved entrepreneurs across Long Island, New York City, and surrounding areas. Through education, advocacy, mentorship, and access to resources, the Foundation empowers business growth and sustainable community impact.

Media Contact:

African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.

Email: africanamericansmallbizfoundation@gmail.com

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