The 7th Annual AALS Dream Awards Gala will be conducted on June 21, 2024. The Dream Awards Gala has become the signature annual event for the AALS, and the one of the most anticipated events of the year in Anderson County. 

Once again, we will recognize leadership in the African American community by presenting the following awards:

The Emerging Leader Community Award will be presented to an individual under the age of 35, who exhibits exemplary professional accomplishments and commitment to service the community.

The Ambassador Leadership Award will celebrate and recognize a distinguished individual who represents the characteristics of a leader, has a spirit of collaboration and cooperation, is exemplary in developing steadfast relationships ultimately building partnerships - cementing societal impacts relating to community, business and public service, science and technology, health and wellness, and/or promotes philanthropic accomplishments within the African American community.

The Community Leader Award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the community through their involvement in volunteer activities and /or their special achievement in specific areas of community and professional life. This individual exemplifies United Way’s core mission of improving our community by providing leadership in identifying needs, securing & leveraging resources and driving action.

The Community Organization Award recognizes an organization that has made significant contributions to the community through its involvement in volunteer activities and /or its special achievement in specific areas of community life. This organization exemplifies United Way’s core mission of improving our community by providing leadership in identifying needs, securing & leveraging resources and driving action.

The Dr. Beatrice Thompson Legacy Award recognizes a pioneer in the community, who through the years, has fought, worked, advocated, and produced change through their community service, their voice and their dedication.

Funds raised from this event will help fund the Jane Edna Hunter Empowerment Center, a partnership with the Urban League of the Upstate. Attire is semi-formal.