Wegmans supports hundreds of non-profit organizations in the Northeast through sponsorships, event support, and ongoing donations. In recognition of Black History Month, we’re highlighting several groups that strongly support and celebrate the Black community.
Pennsylvania: Black Scranton Project
In Scranton, Pennsylvania, Glynis Johns set out to create a space where the community could engage with the city’s rich history and culture. Leading the transformation of a historic bank in Scranton’s north side, Glynis envisioned it as a center not only for the Black community, but as an inclusive resource for people of all backgrounds.
“We are dedicated to archiving and celebrating local African American history,” says Glynis, founder and CEO of the Black Scranton Project. “When we're not doing historical work, we are amplifying artists; we are spotlighting entrepreneurs and local businesses; and we are transforming the historic bank into an arts and culture space for the entire community.”
Though renovations on the old bank are ongoing, the Project continues to collaborate with local partners and host cultural events.
Among the Project’s signature events are their month-long Black History Month celebrations each February—featuring art, cultural programs, historical displays, and lectures—as well as their vibrant Juneteenth Block Parties. Scranton Wegmans has participated in the past two Juneteenth celebrations and has been involved with many Black History Month programs over the last five years, each offering a unique theme.
“The 2024 Healing through the Arts and the 2025 Labor of Love programs were exceptionally well done,” said Wegmans Scranton Service Manager Andrew Berry. “We are looking forward to what Glynis has planned this month and are excited to participate once again.”
This year’s theme is a celebration of 100 years of African American history, coinciding with the bank building’s own centennial anniversary.
Glynis says that in 2026 the Project aims to expand its volunteer group to help organize events, advocate for the Black community, and provide educational opportunities for local students. To find out more about volunteering or the Black Scranton Project’s activities, visit the Black Scranton Project website.
New York: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
In 2006, when Bessie Patterson found out that the organizer for Buffalo, New York’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration was stepping down, putting the event itself in jeopardy, she knew she had to do something.
“I thought he was joking at first, but once he made it clear that he was done and there was no one to take over, I just started making calls,” says Bessie. “I couldn’t let something so important to our community just end like that, so I took over.”
Bessie works with the Concerned Citizens Following the Dream Committee to develop the program which includes music, dancing, and poetry performances as well as a keynote speaker and community awards, all inspired by the work and service of Dr. King. The free family event is always a big hit with the community. It is held on the third Sunday of January at Kleinhans Music Hall, at 4:30 p.m. Wegmans has been a sponsor for more than 20 years and employees have regularly served as volunteers.
Maryland: HBCU Battle of the Bands
Each September, the University of Maryland’s SECU Stadium comes alive with the sounds of brass and percussion as High Stepping Nationals hosts its celebrated Battle of the Bands. This annual event draws student musicians, families, and supporters from across the region, spotlighting the vibrant traditions and artistic excellence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In 2025, more than 1,800 student musicians and staff from nine HBCUs participated. “High Stepping Nationals is dedicated to promoting music education and performing arts in public and urban schools,” says Executive Director Rodney Chambers. “Our mission extends beyond the stage, providing college scholarships, organizing audition days, and hosting a large-scale summer music camp for high school students, all of which enrich local culture, empower youth, and foster lasting community connections.” The Capitol Battle of the Bands is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of talent, mentorship, and opportunity. Last year’s event also highlighted local entrepreneurs and small businesses, offering attendees a chance to experience the diverse energy and innovation present in the community. The drumline performances, sponsored by Wegmans, wowed the crowd of 15,000, while the event’s inclusive atmosphere united supporters from all walks of life. As High Stepping Nationals looks to the future, organizers are looking to expand their pool of volunteers to help make the summer camp a success as well as expand the Capitol Battle of the Bands to a full day or weekend celebration. Anyone interested in volunteering at either event is encouraged to visit highsteppingnationals.org.
These organizations showcase commitment, innovation, and a strong sense of community, empowering and supporting the Black community throughout the Northeast. We are proud to shine a spotlight on these groups and others with similar missions and celebrate how they are making a difference in our local communities.