Celebrating Young Leaders: 2024 Keeper of the Dream Award

2024 Keeper of the Dream Award Winners Announced

The National Civil Rights Museum proudly announces the winners of the 2024 Keeper of the Dream Award, recognizing the impactful contributions of three remarkable youth. The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate leadership and commitment to social justice, and this year's recipients are Adaria Crutcher, Corey Mitchell Irby II, and Maria Fernanda Machado.

Meet Adaria Crutcher

Adaria Crutcher, a senior at White Station High School, has been a beacon of hope for students facing mental health challenges. Along with her peers, she founded StoryUnfinished., an initiative dedicated to supporting those grappling with suicidal thoughts. Remarkably, through this initiative, nearly 500 students have learned vital coping strategies. As a social media manager for the Memphis Interfaith Coalition for Action and Hope (MICAH) Youth Council, Adaria amplifies youth voices, advocating for change and gathering a network of approximately 600 engaged young individuals.

Corey Mitchell Irby II's Achievements

Another winner, Corey Mitchell Irby II, from East T-STEM Academy High School, showcased exceptional leadership by organizing an East Campus Cleanup event. Together with classmates, Memphis City Beautiful, and East High's PTO, Corey mobilized over 150 student volunteers for this grassroots effort. The success of this initiative earned his school's DECA chapter a prestigious national Community Service Award. Additionally, Corey is a prominent member of Project STAND and serves as a Memphis Ambassador, advocating for wellness and access to necessary resources in underserved neighborhoods.

Maria Fernanda Machado's Impactful Initiatives

Maria Fernanda Machado, also a senior, has been actively engaged as a student attorney with Youth Court Services since 2022, fighting valiantly for civil rights and social justice. Her innovative spirit led her to establish Soy Mia, a nonprofit that provides free menstrual products throughout Memphis, specifically benefiting the Hispanic community. Maria's efforts include Spanish-language workshops and distributing hundreds of menstrual starter kits. She also volunteers with Cazateatro, a bilingual theater group, contributing to event coordination, outreach, and production efforts.

Voices of Leadership and Compassion

Expressing the shared goals of the award winners, Maria stated, "True leadership is about listening, learning, and acting with compassion. Through these initiatives, I've seen how small steps toward equality can ripple out into larger waves of social change." This reflection encapsulates the essence of the recognition these young leaders are receiving.

The Award Ceremony and Its Significance

The 2024 Keeper of the Dream Award will be presented during the hybrid Freedom Award Student Forum. This significant event is scheduled to take place at FedEx Forum, honoring the vital role of youth in the ongoing struggle for civil and human rights. Each award recipient will receive a prize of $500, a trophy, and complimentary family admission to the National Civil Rights Museum.

About the National Civil Rights Museum

Situated at the historic Lorraine Motel, the NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM offers an in-depth perspective on the American Civil Rights Movement from its inception to the present day. Since its opening in 1991, the museum has welcomed millions of visitors, including over 90,000 students annually. The museum aims to chronicling the journey for civil rights while inspiring engagement for positive social change.

Recognized internationally, the National Civil Rights Museum has received several accolades, including the 2019 National Medal Award from the Institute of Museums and Library Services and a position as a top U.S. museum by TripAdvisor. Through educational programming, the museum provides invaluable experiences for students and educators, encouraging them to draw inspiration from global figures in civil rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the 2024 Keeper of the Dream Award winners?

The winners are Adaria Crutcher, Corey Mitchell Irby II, and Maria Fernanda Machado, who are recognized for their contributions to social justice.

What does the Keeper of the Dream Award represent?

The award honors young leaders making significant impacts in their communities through advocacy and social change initiatives.

How does Adaria Crutcher support mental health?

Adaria founded StoryUnfinished., a support initiative that helps students dealing with suicidal thoughts, promoting coping strategies.

What nonprofit did Maria Fernanda Machado establish?

Maria founded Soy Mia, a nonprofit providing free menstrual products, particularly for the Hispanic community.

Where will the award ceremony be held?

The award ceremony takes place at FedEx Forum during the hybrid Freedom Award Student Forum.

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