The Rhythm & Blues Preservation Society will hold its 2026 Founder’s Day Honors Mixer & Toy Drive from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at the Noyes Arts Garage in Atlantic City.
The holiday gathering will bring together educators, community leaders, public servants, cultural advocates and supporters for an afternoon of recognition, networking and community giving. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child ages 5 to 11. The toy drive will benefit Family Success Center Oceanside II.
Held annually on the society’s founding anniversary, the event highlights its work in Black music preservation, education, curriculum development and community engagement.
“This event allows us to recognize people who are making meaningful contributions in their communities while also introducing more leaders and organizations to the mission of RBPSOC,” said Perry “The Maestro” Thompson, the society’s founder. “Founder’s Day is about honoring where we have been, celebrating the people who have supported the work, and building relationships for where we are going next.”
The 2026 honors will recognize contributions to education, public service, community leadership, accessibility, cultural preservation, family advocacy, music education, research and Black cultural scholarship.
According to the society, confirmed honorees include representatives from higher education, government, community services, libraries, disability advocacy and cultural education. Honoree announcements will be released throughout November and December as confirmations are finalized.
The program will feature a networking mixer, a presentation on the society’s history and mission, the awards presentation and a holiday toy-drive presentation. Holiday semiformal attire is encouraged.
The event also will offer opportunities to discuss collaborations for 2027, including school and college programs, curriculum partnerships, lectures, sponsorships and Black music preservation projects.
Sponsorship and community partnership opportunities include a $100 small-business sponsorship and a $50 individual supporter option. Corporate, educational, nonprofit and individual supporters are welcome.
The society plans to release RSVP information and additional details about honorees, sponsors and participation in the coming weeks.
The Rhythm & Blues Preservation Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Black music culture through education, storytelling, cultural programming and intergenerational learning. It works with schools, colleges, libraries, cultural institutions, community organizations and music industry professionals to connect Black music history with present and future generations.
For sponsorship, partnership or event information, email RBPSOC2018@gmail.com or call 609-312-8980.
