Behind The Ball
The Black Excellence Ball was conceived as a celebration of culture, achievement, and empowerment within the African American community. At The Roots Initiative, we believe in honoring our rich heritage while propelling our community forward. The ball serves as a beacon of unity and inspiration, bringing together individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact.
Join Our Cause
Everything You Need to Know About the Big Night
Where
When
The Hubbard Inn
February 28, 2025
110 West Hubbard Street Chicago, IL 60654
Friday Evening
From 6PM Until 9PM
*VIP Reception 5PM Until 6PM
We warmly invite you to an unforgettable evening at the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Ball hosted by The Roots Initiative. On February 28, 2025, immerse yourself in a celebration of culture, achievement, and empowerment at the elegant Hubbard Inn in Chicago. With the inspiring theme "Empowerment in Motion," this gala promises a night of sophistication, live entertainment, fine dining, and meaningful connections. Together, we'll honor the resilience and accomplishments of the African American community while supporting programs that empower our youth. Join us in making a lasting impact—be a part of this extraordinary event!
Can't Attend?
Make a Donation
Your Generosity Makes a Difference
Frequency
One time
Amount
$250
$500
$750
$1,000
The Impact We Make
Join Us to Celelbrate and Fund Essential Programs That Transforms Lives and Creates Lasting Impact.
At The Roots Initiative, The Black Excellence Ball is more than an elegant gala—it's a powerful catalyst for change within our community. Through the generosity of our attendees, sponsors, and supporters, we've been able to make significant strides in empowering African American youth and fostering a brighter future.
Your Support Makes a Difference:
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Empowering Youth: Funds raised from the Black Excellence Ball directly support programs that have positively impacted our young people. Through mentorship and education, we're equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed.
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Restoring Cultural Identity: Our initiatives help youth reconnect with their heritage, fostering a strong sense of identity and pride. This connection empowers them to navigate the world with confidence and purpose.
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Promoting Wellness: We prioritize social and emotional wellness, ensuring that our youth have the support they need to thrive mentally and emotionally.
Become An Event Sponsor
We invite you to play a pivotal role in the success of the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Ball by becoming an event sponsor. Your generous support not only helps us reach our fundraising goal of $50,000 but also directly impacts the lives of African American youth through our programs like the AL3 Fellowship and Freedom Fridays. By partnering with us, you'll be contributing to a meaningful cause while gaining valuable exposure for your organization.
Choose from our sponsorship packages or donation tiers to find the level that best suits your commitment to making a difference.
Sponsorship Levels
Platinum Sponsor — $10,000
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Recognition as a Platinum Sponsor
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Prominent logo placement on event website and digital displays
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Social Media Spotlight leading up to the event
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Recognition of support in press releases and media coverage
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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Meet and Greet with our Founder and AL3 Fellows
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10 VIP Tickets to the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Ball
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Gold Sponsor — $5,000
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Recognition as a Gold Sponsor
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Logo placement on event website and digital displays
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Social Media Spotlight leading up to the event
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Recognition of support in press releases and media coverage
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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Meet and Greet with our Founder and AL3 Fellows
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8 VIP Tickets to the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Ball
Silver Sponsor — $2,500
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Recognition as a Silver Sponsor
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Logo placement on event website and digital displays
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Social Media Spotlight leading up to the event
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Recognition of support in press releases and media coverage
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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Meet and Greet with our Founder and AL3 Fellows
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6 VIP Tickets to the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Ball
Donation Tiers
If you prefer to support our mission without selecting a sponsorship package, consider our donation tiers. Your generous contribution will still make a significant impact, and you'll receive special benefits as our token of appreciation.
$1000
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4 Event Tickets
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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4 Drink Tickets
$500
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2 Event Tickets
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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2 Drink Tickets
$750
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3 Event Tickets
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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3 Drink Tickets
$250
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1 Event Ticket
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Invitation to the VIP Reception
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1 Drink Ticket
Honoree Spotlight
Each year, The Roots Initiative’s Black Excellence Ball shines a light on leaders who are breaking barriers, enriching communities, and inspiring generations. Our 2025 honorees—both Trailblazers and our Luminary—are visionaries, advocates, and innovators dedicated to uplifting their neighborhoods, championing equity, and transforming challenges into opportunities for collective growth. Their work embodies the spirit of “Empowerment In Motion,” reminding us that when we honor and invest in courageous leadership, we set the stage for brighter, more equitable futures.
Asiaha Butler
Asiaha Butler is a lifelong resident of Englewood and the Co-Founder/CEO of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood (R.A.G.E.), which provides education, youth development, and economic empowerment to her community. She led efforts to repurpose closed schools and organized community-based walk-throughs to envision their future use. Under her leadership, R.A.G.E. launched initiatives like the “Re-Up” Economic Upliftment Program and supported the creation of a local housing development company to build pathways toward generational wealth. Her work has earned her significant recognition, speaking engagements at the Aspen Ideas Festival, and features in various local media outlets.
Trailblazer Honoree
Kenneth Griffin
Kenneth Griffin, raised on Chicago’s South Side, founded “No Matter What” to provide youth with essential resources and opportunities. Drawing on his culinary and hospitality background, and experience as a Chicago Police Officer, he developed programs like “Cooking with a Cop” to support and inspire young people. Through international trips, youth-led community gardens, summer camps, and scholarships, Kenneth creates transformative pathways for youth to thrive despite adversity.
Trailblazer Honoree
Jurema Gorham
Jurema Gorham is an educator, entrepreneur, and community advocate who empowers organizations and individuals to realize their full potential through sustainable strategies and impactful programs. As the founder of Jurema Gorham LLC, she provides nonprofit consulting, leadership training, and program development services that spark innovation and meaningful community change. She also leads Burst Into Books, a nonprofit expanding literacy opportunities for children and families on Chicago’s South Side. With over a decade of experience in education, Jurema’s work champions equity, creativity, and inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive.
Trailblazer Honoree
James Fields
James Fields is a dedicated youth advocate with over 15 years of experience in Chicago, shaped by his roots on the city’s west side. As Senior Director of the Youth Council at Mikva Challenge, he has supported young leaders, including court-involved youth, in influencing systems and policies. He founded Fields of Dreams Chicago to nurture youth leadership, wellness, and equitable opportunities. His work has earned national recognition, inspiring others to champion youth decision-making as a catalyst for thriving communities.
Trailblazer Honoree
Ernest Crim III
Ernest Crim III is an Emmy-nominated producer, former high school history teacher, and antiracist educator who leverages Black historical narratives to inspire cultural understanding and social justice. A south side of Chicago native, he now reaches millions online each month, creating content for major platforms such as HBO, Disney, and the History Channel. As the CEO of Crim’s Cultural Consulting LLC, he has shared his insights as an international speaker, author, and progressive education advocate at venues like Harvard University and the University of Chicago. His work has garnered national attention, featuring on CNN, Good Morning America, and other major media outlets.
Trailblazer Honoree
Carmita Semaan
Carmita Semaan is the Founder and CEO of The Surge Institute, an organization dedicated to elevating leaders of color in the social sector. Under her leadership, Surge has grown into a network of more than 400 alumni impacting the lives of 3.4 million students nationwide. Inspired by her roots in Birmingham, Alabama, Carmita’s guiding principle integrates head, heart, and soul to drive sustainable impact and champion overlooked genius. With an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School and a BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan, she is a recognized leader whose work has earned her accolades like the 2023 Luminary Award from the 1954 Project. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her family and their goldendoodle, Jefferson.
Luminary Honoree
Our Generous Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organizations and businesses that have partnered with us to make this event a success. Your generous contributions help fuel our mission to empower communities and celebrate Black excellence.
PlatinumSponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
