Charlene Jackson Honored at “Homegrown Heroes of Long Island” Celebration at Adelphi University

Garden City, NY — March 14, 2026 — Community leader and advocate Charlene Jackson was honored as one of the distinguished honorees at the Homegrown Heroes of Long Island celebration held at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

The event brought together civic leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and community members to celebrate individuals whose work continues to uplift and empower communities across Long Island.

The annual Homegrown Heroes of Long Island recognition event was curated by Shirley Darkeh, a respected community leader and cultural curator known for her work elevating stories of leadership, resilience, and achievement within the African American community.

Through her work, Darkeh has helped create platforms that recognize individuals whose contributions often go unnoticed but whose impact has been transformative for communities across Long Island.

Left to Right: Charlen Jackson, Honoree, Rose Ward, Vice President, Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., and Phil Andrews, President, 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc.

Charlene Jackson was recognized for her outstanding contributions to community development, advocacy, and support for minority-owned businesses. Her work has helped strengthen opportunities for entrepreneurs while promoting initiatives that foster economic empowerment and community engagement throughout the region.

Charlene Jackson has recently published her groundbreaking book “The Ministry of Motherhood” A Spiritual Guide To Raising Children With Faith, Grace and Purpose and is available online at: www.tinyurl.com/theministryofmotherhoodbook

To request bulk copies email us at: wapublicrelationsco@gmail.com

“Homegrown Heroes celebrates the individuals who dedicate their lives to strengthening our communities and opening doors for future generations,” said Shirley Darkeh, curator of Homegrown Heroes of Long Island. “Charlene Jackson represents the spirit of leadership, service, and perseverance that continues to inspire positive change across Long Island.”

Darkeh, who has long been involved in community engagement, event curation, and advocacy initiatives, is recognized for her ability to bring together leaders from business, government, nonprofit, and civic sectors to celebrate collective progress and shared commitment to community advancement.

Her work focuses on highlighting the achievements of local leaders whose contributions create lasting social, cultural, and economic impact.

Hosted by the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc., the celebration recognizes individuals whose leadership continues to shape Long Island’s social, cultural, and economic landscape.

Held at the renowned Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, the evening featured community recognition, networking, and reflections on the importance of mentorship, entrepreneurship, and collaborative leadership.

The event aligns with the mission of the participating organizations to strengthen communities through economic empowerment, education, mentorship, health awareness, and access to opportunity.

About: Curator, Shirley Darkeh

Shirley Darkeh is a community leader and cultural curator dedicated to highlighting the achievements and contributions of leaders across Long Island. Through her work organizing recognition events and community initiatives, she has helped elevate the visibility of individuals making meaningful contributions to economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and community development. Darkeh is widely respected for her commitment to celebrating community excellence and fostering connections that strengthen civic engagement.

About the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to empowering the African American community socially, culturally, and economically to sustain viable ecosystems through access to capital, business education, technical assistance, advocacy, and community engagement.

About the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc.

The mission of the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. is “Four For The Future” ® — mentoring, education, health & wellness, and economic empowerment. The organization operates under the model “What They See They’ll Be” ® and “Real Men Giving Time.” ®

About the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.

The African American Small Business Foundation serves as a charitable arm supporting programs that provide capital access, business development resources, and community initiatives designed to strengthen African American entrepreneurship and economic sustainability.

Media Contact:
Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce
www.liaacc.org