Photo Credit: Raquelle Harris for Steed Media
The Don Davis Legacy Foundation kicked off their inaugural fundraiser with a gala in Detroit on Thursday, Oct. 6. A bevy of celebrities and influencers attended the event held at the prestigious Music Hall. It signaled the end of the 89th Annual National Bankers Association Convention.
Co-hosted by award-winning actress Vivica A. Fox along with award-winning actor Laz Alonso, the awards and tribute fundraiser honored leaders in their respective fields. The night started with an auction featuring the work of internationally acclaimed artist Charles Bibbs. His pieces were quickly acquired, with profits benefiting the Don Davis Legacy Foundation.
Prior to his death, Davis had more than doubled the assets of First Independence Bank — the 11th largest Black-owned bank in America. Don Davis Jr. represented well for his father when he accepted the inaugural Outstanding Business Leader and Philanthropist Award (Posthumous). Additional honorees were Daymond John (“Shark Tank”) – Business Icon of the Year Award; Dr. Karl Gregory – Vanguard Award for Social and Economic Justice; Vivian Pickard – Corporate Excellence and Community Visionary Award.
Dynamic performances by gospel sensation Kierra Sheard, hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh and R&B maestro Johnny Gill kept the audience entertained. Fox and Alonso kept the crowd laughing throughout the night with their complementary banter.
Davis’ widow, Kiko Davis spoke fondly of her late husband, expressing her dedication to ensuring that his memory remains an integral part of the present and future. She recently established the Don Davis Legacy Foundation to aid entrepreneurs, individuals and community service organizations through scholarships, grants and educational programs.
“It had been a long-time vision of my late husband and me to continue working towards community empowerment, a vision that he and I both shared,” says Kiko Davis “I proudly enter into our foundation’s endeavors with the dedication to carry out Don’s wishes, with pride and enthusiasm, and to do the work that impacts our community in a positive way.”
See pictures below.
Photo gallery credit: Raquelle Harris for Steed Media
