FREEDOM FUND

This award is presented to a female Unit member who embodies the spirit of above and beyond service and leadership to the Unit, and to our overall catchment area.

Alma Dolores Roan Clay was born, raised, and educated in Orange, NJ and had an unwavering dedication to love, faith, and commitment to service. During her nearly 30-year career with the City of Orange as Recreation Supervisor, Alma flourished as President or the Orange Municipal Employees Benevolent Association, and member of the Orange Municipal Alliance. Upon retirement in 2000, Alma became an Executive Member of the Oranges & Maplewood Branch, holding the positions of Membership Chair and Unit Secretary for over 10 years until God called her home on October 18, 2012. In 2004, Alma secured a grant from the US Department of Justice to establish a free after school program at her home church, Bethel Baptist in Orange. Through the program, children received academic enrichment, cultural exposure, and spiritual education. Upon her passing, the Oranges & Maplewood Branch voted to rename the service award in her honor, and it was first presented under the new name during our 2013 Centennial Gala.

The Reginald T. Jeffries Civic Service Award presented to a male member of the Oranges and Maplewood NAACP, who has exemplified the highest standards of leadership excellence as a servant leader and support of the mission of the NAACP to achieve social justice and equality. We honor his longtime legacy of fighting for civil rights and social justice.

Born in Orange, New Jersey, Reginald T. Jeffries lived most of his life in East Orange, New Jersey where there is a street dedicated to his service. He earned a B.S. Degree in Chemistry from Upsala College and furthered his education at Rutgers University. Jeffries has always been committed to embracing the quality of life for the youth in the community and was largely giving of his time. 

Reginald T Jeffries, a trailblazer for justice and equality, was a very active Civil Rights Leader, he was actively involved in the social and political issues facing disadvantaged communities and a Life Member who gave over 35 years of outstanding service to the NAACP. He served on several civic, governmental and religious organizations, and he also served as the following for the NAACP: First Vice President and Legal Redress Chairman of the NJ State Conference, a member of the Regional Steering Committee, National Convention Committee, a troubleshooter for the National Office, and President of the Oranges Maplewood Branch for many years.