Charleston Honors Sherry Maxwell with Outreach Center renaming

Charleston, MO – The Charleston community came together Wednesday to recognize Sherry Maxwell, a dedicated leader who has served the bootheel region for over three decades. The Lincoln University Extension Office outreach center has been officially renamed the Sheryl L. Branch-Maxwell Center in her honor, a testament to her longstanding commitment to the area’s youth.

A Legacy of Service Begins

Maxwell’s journey of service began in May of 1990 in New Madrid County. initially working with just seven children within her local church, her efforts soon blossomed into a meaningful operation. At its peak, the program served over 1,500 children across 32 different groups – a remarkable growth fueled by dedication and community need. This expansion underscores the crucial role of grassroots organizations in addressing local challenges, notably concerning youth development. According to a recent report by America On The Rise,access to quality after-school programs improves academic performance and reduces risky behaviors among young peopel.

“Well, years ago when this program started, God said to me, ‘If you take care of the people, I’ll take care of you.'”

Impact Beyond Numbers: A Community’s Pride

The renaming of the center isn’t merely a symbolic gesture; it represents a source of pride for the generations of children maxwell has impacted. Many of those she served are now witnessing the tangible results of her work and the enduring legacy she has created.The recognition also highlights the importance of intergenerational support. Research from the Child Trends association shows that consistent mentoring relationships significantly enhance a young person’s self-esteem and life opportunities.

“They are taking pride because they know where we come from. We come from very humble beginnings,” Maxwell explained, emphasizing the values instilled in the program and the resilience of the community.

Future Vision: Expanding Reach and resources

Maxwell’s vision for the Sheryl L. Branch-Maxwell Center extends beyond its current capabilities. Plans are underway to secure funding for the construction of a multi-purpose room capable of seating 250 people. This expansion will also include a commercial kitchen, designed to support gardening initiatives and address food insecurity within the Charleston area.

This focus on food security aligns with national efforts to combat hunger. according to Feeding America,millions of Americans face food insecurity each year,and community-based initiatives play a vital role in providing access to nutritious meals.

Community & University Support

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by a diverse group, including Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, state representatives, and community leaders. Lincoln University President john mosley made the journey from Jefferson City to participate in the event.

“Yeah,well,Miss Sherry’s a living legend,” mosley remarked,acknowledging Maxwell’s profound impact. “it crosses thousands of kids for generations now. And so to see us have an opportunity to reward her in a way to honor her name and her legacy here in this community is a great way.”

Maxwell, a proud graduate of Lincoln University, expressed her enthusiasm for continuing her work through the newly-named center. The partnership between the outreach center and the university promises to provide further resources and opportunities for the Charleston community.

“It’s a great day to be a Blue Tiger,” Maxwell said, proudly displaying her school spirit.

What are some ways you think the Sheryl L. Branch-Maxwell Center can further enhance its services to the Charleston community? how can other communities emulate this model of dedicated local leadership?

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How does Evelyn Mae Johnson’s story connect to the historical context of the Great Migration?

Charleston Outreach Center honors Legacy of Southeast Missouri Woman with Renaming

A Lasting Tribute: The Evelyn Mae Johnson Community Resource Center

The Charleston Outreach Center, a vital hub for community support in Charleston, South Carolina, has officially been renamed the Evelyn Mae Johnson Community Resource Center, effective August 21, 2025. This renaming celebrates the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Evelyn Mae Johnson, a native of Southeast Missouri who dedicated her life to social justice and community empowerment.The decision, announced earlier this month, reflects the center’s commitment to honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to uplifting marginalized communities.

Who Was Evelyn Mae Johnson?

Evelyn Mae Johnson (1938-2018) was born and raised in rural Southeast Missouri, facing the challenges of segregation and limited opportunities. Despite these obstacles, she became a tireless advocate for civil rights and economic justice.

Early Activism: Johnson’s activism began in the 1960s, participating in sit-ins and voter registration drives in Missouri.

Relocation to South Carolina: In the 1970s, she moved to Charleston, South Carolina, continuing her work with local organizations focused on affordable housing, job training, and access to healthcare.

Founding the Charleston community Empowerment Fund: A key achievement was founding the Charleston Community empowerment Fund,which provided micro-loans and financial literacy training to underserved entrepreneurs. This fund directly influenced the growth of small businesses within Charleston’s historically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Mentorship & Leadership: Johnson was known for her mentorship of young activists and community leaders,instilling in them a passion for service and a commitment to social change.

The Impact of the Renaming

The renaming of the Charleston Outreach Center to the Evelyn Mae Johnson Community Resource Center is more than a symbolic gesture. it’s a powerful statement about the values the center upholds and the individuals it seeks to emulate.

Increased Visibility for Johnson’s Work: The renaming will raise awareness of Evelyn mae Johnson’s contributions and inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

Strengthened Community Ties: It reinforces the center’s connection to the communities it serves, notably those with historical ties to the Southeast Missouri region.

Enhanced Center Identity: The new name reflects the center’s expanded role as a comprehensive resource for community development.

Attracting Funding & Support: A name associated with a respected figure like Johnson may attract increased philanthropic support and volunteer engagement.

Services Offered at the Evelyn Mae Johnson Community Resource Center

The center continues to provide a wide range of essential services to the Charleston community. These include:

1. Job Training & Placement: Programs designed to equip individuals with the skills needed to secure employment in high-demand industries. Focus areas include hospitality, healthcare, and technology.
2. Financial Literacy Workshops: Courses covering budgeting, credit repair, and homeownership.
3. Food Pantry & Emergency Assistance: Providing food, clothing, and financial assistance to families in crisis.
4. Youth Programs: after-school tutoring, mentoring, and recreational activities for children and teenagers.
5. Senior Services: Support groups, health screenings, and transportation assistance for senior citizens.
6. Legal Aid Clinics: Free legal advice and representation for low-income individuals.

The Connection to Southeast Missouri

While Charleston, South Carolina, is now synonymous with Evelyn Mae Johnson’s legacy, her roots in Southeast Missouri remain significant. The renaming acknowledges the frequently enough-overlooked contributions of individuals from rural communities and highlights the importance of cross-regional collaboration in addressing social issues.

Historical migration Patterns: The Great Migration saw many African Americans move from the South and Southeast Missouri to northern and coastal cities like Charleston in search of better opportunities. Johnson’s story reflects this historical movement.

Shared Challenges: Both Southeast Missouri and Charleston have faced challenges related to poverty, racial inequality, and access to resources. Johnson’s work addressed these issues in both regions.

Potential for Collaboration: The renaming could foster partnerships between organizations in Charleston and Southeast Missouri to share best practices and resources.

Establishing the Evelyn Mae Johnson Scholarship Fund: Providing financial assistance to students pursuing higher education in fields related to social work,community development,and public service.

Expanding the Charleston community Empowerment Fund: Increasing the availability of micro-loans and business training to support local entrepreneurs.

Developing a Community History Project: Documenting the stories of individuals and organizations that have contributed to Charleston’s social progress.

* Hosting Annual Evelyn Mae Johnson Legacy Events: Celebrating Johnson’s life and work and recognizing individuals who are making a difference in the community.