Recap: The 2025 Spring Benefit

On May 1, 2025, we gathered for Weeksville Heritage Center’s Third Annual Spring Benefit, an unforgettable evening of community, culture, and celebration in support of our mission to preserve, document, and share the history of one of the nation’s first free Black communities.

The night was filled with joy, purpose, and powerful moments — from vibrant performances to heartfelt reflections on what Weeksville means to Brooklyn and beyond. We were honored to recognize two visionary leaders, Nona Hendryx and Mikki Shepard, whose lifelong commitments to Black culture, creativity, and community have shaped the landscape of arts and advocacy in profound ways.

The evening also marked the launch of Black Visionaries: Weeksville Then and Now, an augmented reality mural experience led by Nona Hendryx that invites audiences to explore Weeksville’s legacy through a powerful, immersive lens.

We’re deeply grateful to our incredible sponsors, partners, and guests for showing up with such generosity and love. Most of all, we thank our dedicated staff and volunteers — the true heart of Weeksville — whose efforts made the event possible.

Together, we raised critical funds to support Weeksville’s programs, preservation efforts, and educational initiatives — and we’re just getting started.

It’s not too late to support this work. Make a gift today!

Thank you for standing with us.