(GALLERY) The Ivy Community Center, Inc. Hosts Their Highly Anticipated Annual Jazz Brunch

**Saxophonist Jashaun Peele and DJ Martinez (Photo: Jerry Head)**

DURHAM, NC – On a sunny Sunday, September 22, 2024, the warm and inviting atmosphere of the Sheraton Imperial Hotel and Convention Center in Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, played host to The Ivy Community Center, Inc. (ICC)’s Annual Jazz Brunch. The event offered an enchanting experience filled with the aromas of delectable cuisine, the harmonious melodies of live jazz music, and the joyous laughter of friends and neighbors. The proceeds from this event benefit the center’s invaluable community service programs. Renowned saxophonist Jashaun Peele and the talented DJ Martinez graced the occasion with their captivating performances, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. Take a glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere of the event through the photos below.

Ivy — **ICC Board of Directors (Photo: Jerry Head)**

The Brunch started with a brief program that set the tone for the event:

Opening by Julia Fairley, Vice-President of ICC, Inc.
Acknowledgment of Sponsors by Dr. Kamala Uzzell
Overview of ICC’s Purpose by Desdemona Faison
Introduction of Musician/DJ by Chelsea Fulmore
Prayer led by Rev. Lakesha Bradshaw Easter
Raffle Announcement by Renita B. Hart, the Brunch Chairman
Closing Remarks by Dr. Tara Fikes, President of ICC, Inc.

The Annual Jazz Brunch is the signature fundraising event for the Ivy Community Center, Inc. (ICC). It aims to foster community engagement while raising essential funds to support its community-centered initiatives.

Overview of Ivy Community Center, Inc.

The Ivy Community Center, Inc. (ICC) was established in 1995 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the Durham community through targeted service programs. With this mission, the ICC has provided many programs and seminars on education, health, family enrichment, and financial literacy. Additionally, the ICC has partnered with several local groups to offer community programming at their facility at 4222 Fayetteville Road in Durham, North Carolina.

In collaboration with the Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, ICC actively works to uplift the community through its mission-driven services. Proceeds from the Annual Jazz Brunch support these programs, ensuring that ICC can continue to provide valuable resources and services to the Durham community.

2024 Sponsors

Gold

Dr. Tara Fikes
Andrea “Lynn” Fulmore – Broker Realtor – Fathom Realty NC LLC
Lamar Homes Roofing
Modern Etiquette, LLC
SOLAY Counseling and Consulting, PC
Wilson Enterprise, Inc. – H&R Block

Pearl

Dr. Tedra Anderson Brown
Mrs. Carrissa Dixon
Mrs. Connie Britt
Ms. Renita Hart
The Craig Insurance Group
Spectacular Magazine
Sheraton Imperial Hotel – Raleigh-Durham Airport

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

The Ivy Community Center is operated by the Alpha Zeta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first historically African American sorority established in the United States. Founded in 1908 at Howard University, Alpha Kappa Alpha is dedicated to community service, academic excellence, and women empowerment. The sorority plays a vital role in the management and operation of the ICC, ensuring that its programs align with the values of sisterhood and service. Through various outreach initiatives, the chapter actively engages in efforts to uplift the community and address pressing social issues, significantly impacting residents.