The African American Educational and Cultural Festival, Inc.
(AAECF, Inc)
(a 501(c)(3) BIPOC Organization)
Our Promo
AAECF Current Events &
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Sponsoring events organized by AAECF, Inc. elevates your brand's status as a leader dedicated to promoting advocacy that enhances community strength and empowers individuals with essential resources for thriving in today’s intricate landscape. By securing a premium sponsorship, you gain exclusive visibility at the event and direct engagement with social media professionals nationwide, linking your brand to key decision-makers and consumers. This sponsorship transcends mere financial support; it serves as a compelling affirmation of your brand’s principles and its commitment to fostering an informed and dynamic society.
A Letter of Thanks!
On behalf of the AAECF, Inc. members, I would like to extend our sincere thanks for attending our 2nd Annual Holiday Building Fundraiser and Awards Gala on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at our Venue Sponsor's establishment, The Hotel Indigo East End, Riverhead, NY. Your presence and support were invaluable and contributed greatly to the success of the evening.
Because of your generosity, we were able to raise funds toward our vision of establishing a Cultural Center & Museum, bringing us one step closer to this meaningful goal. You can continue to donate by clicking the link: https://www.aaecfinc.org/sponsor-form#donate-today
Every amount donated brings us one step closer to our goal.
We hope you enjoyed the evening’s highlights, including the entertainment, awards presentation, silent auction, keynote speaker, and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. For your convenience, you can view some of our favorite event photos and videos at https://www.aaecfinc.org/gala.
Thank you once again for being such an important part of our community. We look forward to staying connected and hope to see you at future AAECF events.
Warm regards,
Marylin Banks-Winter
Marylin Banks-Winter
President & Co-Chair
Many Thanks!
To Our
Venue Sponsor
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Click on the Video to view Our 2025 Gala Honorees
Thank You to our Keynote Speaker,
New York State Lieutenant Governor Antonio R. Delgado
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Link to our Vendors!
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Theme : ‘ Native American History All Year Round’
S
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST - 2:30PM-5:00PM,
RIVERHEAD FREE LIBRARY, RIVERHEAD, NY
Come join us together with Indigenous leaders as we learn, share traditional foods, and participate in the 'round dance' alongside Native communities in a spirit of culture, community, unity, and celebration. By engaging in these meaningful experiences year-round, we learn to move beyond the limited recognition of Native American Heritage Month in November—toward a deeper, ongoing commitment to understanding, respect, and celebration every day of 'First Nations People'. Native American history is rich, diverse, and deeply woven into the fabric of the Americas. Let us honor that legacy through connection, education, and shared experience.
AUGUST 2025 Benefit Concert In The Park!
THANK YOU!
To everyone who participated in our 2025 Benefit Concert in the Park—you made it unforgettable!
Your energy, support, and presence helped make this event a true celebration of community, purpose, and impact. We are deeply grateful for each and every one of you who made this day so special. See You Next Year!!!
Stay tuned for photos, highlights, and what’s next!
Our Benefit Concert Series supports the programs of our 'Young Women & Young Men Transitional & Mentoring Programs', it offers a diverse range of musical experiences, showcasing an impressive lineup featuring renowned artists such as 'Deverne and the Vintage Soul Band', popular vocalist 'Mark MK', and a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Sam ‘Bluzman’ Taylor, performed by his daughter, recording artist 'Sandra Taylor', along with her band. Sam was a beloved Blues icon, cherished around the world, especially cherished within Riverhead. In addition to the live music, attendees can enjoy vibrant street dance performances feature street dance performances, a Hair Fashion Show highlighting the talents of local barbers and hairstylists, on the 'Wheels of Steel' DJ DMP, Gospel Rapper 'Jawaan Steel', and several surprise appearances. We invite you to join us with your lawn chairs and bring those hand-held fans to participate in the cowboy and cowgirl line-dance segment, "Where Them Fans At," led by renowned Dance Instructor Elaine Booker.
An Event you would not want to miss!
(L to R) Recording Artist Sandra Taylor, Rapper & Music Producer Parish Smith, AAECF President Marylin Banks-Winter, Recording Artist NiNi Love, Dance Instructor Elaine Booker, AAECF Director Timothy Simmons, AAECF Vice President James 'Dr. Love' Banks
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FEBRUARY CELEBRATION
JANUARY CELEBRATION
The African-American Educational and Cultural Festival, Inc. (AAECF) is a non-profit 5o1c3 BIPOC organization in Riverhead. Long Island, NY dedicated to honoring and celebrating African American and Afro-Indigenous culture and history. We provide a variety of educational and cultural experiences, including mentoring, advocacy, art exhibits, educational workshops and presentations, and health initiatives. The organization aims to build stronger, more aware citizens who are capable of constructive expression of diverse opinions. Our programs are designed to support special education and related service programming for children, young adults, adults and people with disabilities.
AAECF Past Events
INDIGENOUS EXHIBIT
Come and View our ‘Native American History All Year Long’ exhibited at the Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court Street, Riverhead Long Island, NY., highlighting past and present Indigenous History. Curated by our AAECF Native American History Committee. Exhibit shown all Month Long. Check library hours before you visit. Bring your family and friends to view.
AAECF, Inc is a 501c3 BIPOC Organization
🗳️ #LIVOTEREADY
Suffolk County residents voter registration Workshop - 2024! 🌟
We conducted three (3) Voter Registration workshops across different districts to ensure Eastern Long Island Residents were ready to vote for the 2024 Presidential and Local General Elections. This was a no-party effort to 'get citizens registered'. Thank you to our dedicated team of volunteers for their involvement and guidance. We had many individuals 18 years old and over who are U.S. citizens and have never voted before, register and voted! That's a big achievement.
Our workshops offer:
- Assistance with filling out your registration form
- Education on candidates and their backgrounds
- Understanding of propositions on the ballot
Your voice matters! Let's make sure every eligible voter is empowered and informed. See you at the workshops! 🇺🇸 #VoterRegistration #Empowerment #2024Elections
Thank you to ALL Participants
listed on the Flyer!
VOTER REGISTRATION
HELP & EDUCATION
GET READY TO VOTE!
KNOW WHO THE
CANDIDATES ARE!
YOUR VOTE COUNTS!
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Habari Gani!
Our yearly Spirit of Kwanzaa celebration highlights the core principles that bring our African American communities together and empower our youth. Watch and learn more about Kwanzaa and the "Nguzo Saba"!
The Spirit of Kwanzaa Celebration 2020
