The Vanguard Independent Democratic Association (VIDA) is holding a fundraising dinner to honor some of Central Brooklyn's elected leaders and also bring light to the vital role the Democratic club plays in the community today.
VIDA was established in 1972 as the Vanguard Civic Association, a grassroots community of parents, educators and community leaders waging for more community control over schools in their neighborhoods.
VIDA's force was so galvanizing at the time, it was largely responsible for the election of Al Vann — then, head of the African American Teachers Association-- to the State Assembly in that year's general election. In fact, Vann polled an unprecedented 2,000-plus votes under the Vanguard Independent Party, in a community registered overwhelmingly Democratic.

Over VIDA's 40 years of existence, it has continually produced community leaders such as the Hon. Paul Wooten, who currently sits on the Appellate Division of the US Supreme Court; Roger Green, the former Assemblyman for the 57th A.D. and the current director of the Dubois Bunche Center for Public Policy; Dr Esmeralda Simmons and Dr. John Flateau, both members of Medgar Evers College, current City Councilmember Rob Cornegy and several more.
This year's honorees include Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Borough President Eric Adams, Public Advocate Letitia James, County Leader Frank Seddio and James Crandall, "VIDA Member of the Year."
Special Invited Guest is Mayor Bill de Blasio. Refreshments and entertainment provided.
WHAT: VIDA Celebrating Brooklyn Leaders
WHEN: Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 from 6-8pm, *VIP Cocktail Hour from 5-6pm
WHERE: TWU Local 100 Headquarters, 195 Montague Street, 3rd floor, Brooklyn, NY
TICKETS:
- Seniors/Students - $25
- Regular - $50 (includes complimentary 1-year membership)
- Professional - $100 (1 VIP ticket)
Purchase your tickets in advance online here.
Sponsorships:
Receive listing on all promotional materials
Bronze - $250 (2 VIP tickets)
Silver - $500 (3 VIP tickets)
Gold - $1,000 (4 VIP tickets)
Platinum - $1,500 (5 VIP tickets)
Please email [email protected] for Sponsorship form.
Event Generously Sponsored by:
TWU Local 100
Council of School Supervisors and Administrators
Teamsters Local 237
DC 37 Local 372
RSVP on Facebook: