NAACP Johnson County Branch featuring Aaron Marcellus The Shedrick Mitchell Trio and Deion Houston Smith and Groove Axis

Johnson County NAACP 60th Annual Freedom Fund An Evening Celebration of Soulful Expressions: Sounds of Freedom

6 p.m. Saturday, November 1, 2025 | Yardley Hall

With VIP Reception: $100 or $80; Without VIP Reception: $65

Individual Tickets

This year’s JCNAACP Freedom Fund will feature a soulful jazz concert spotlighting world-renowned jazz artists and former NAACP ACT-SO and Youth Council members.

We are proud to present the following jazz artists:

  • Houston Smith and Groove Axis, featuring Dreion (Boston/Kansas City). Houston is a Saxophonist who has performed alongside renowned legend Kirk Whalum.
  • The Shedrick Mitchell Trio, featuring Aaron Marcellus (New York City). Shedrick is a keyboardist and Hammond organist who currently performs with R&B artist Maxwell.

From the rhythms of gospel to the timeless beauty of traditional jazz, this extraordinary lineup has something for everyone. Enjoy the "Sounds of Freedom" as we remember our past, celebrate today, and support the ongoing pursuit of justice and civil rights.

The evening performance will also feature local talent and scholarship presentations:

  • KAD Performing Arts, Agape Dance Project
    Kristi Smith High, Owner/Artistic Director
  • Creston Herron - Violinist and Director of the Kansas University Symphony Orchestra

Event Schedule

  • VIP Reception: 4:30–5:30 p.m. | Regnier Center, Capital Federal Conference Room (must purchase VIP ticket to attend reception)
  • Concert doors open: 5:30 p.m. | Yardley Hall, Midwest Trust Center
  • The concert will run approximately 3 hours, with one 15-minute intermission.

Proceeds from JCNAACP annual fundraising event support:

  • Voter registration and education
  • Monthly educational speakers (no charge/open to the public)
  • Community outreach with Johnson County executives, law enforcement, and school boards
  • Youth Council and ACT-SO development (skills and talent)
  • Michael J. Baker and Corinthian Nutter College Scholarships: Since 2008, JCNAACP has awarded over $50,000 in scholarships and recognition, presented at our Annual Freedom Fund celebration.

About the NAACP

For 116 years, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), has stood strong in its mission to secure civil and human rights, eliminate discrimination, dismantle systemic injustice while promoting education, economic opportunity, and health equity for all Americans. JCNAACP #4038 works in partnership with the National Office. We envision an inclusive Johnson County community rooted in liberation where all people can exercise their civil and human rights without discrimination. We encourage members of the community to support civil rights and social justice by joining JCNAACP. For more information about membership, please visit our website.