Community Foundation of Sarasota celebrates local history on a trolley tour.

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“What you’re doing will cause the community to thrive in unexpected ways. Know that the work you are doing is blessed. It is.”                                             Rev. Dr.  Brock Leach

                                               (April 8, 2026)

The president, board of directors and stakeholders of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Brock Leach, a remarkable philanthropist whose generosity, leadership, and spirit will forever inspire us.

“Brock gave magnificently, lovingly, and selflessly of his time, expertise and money. The gatherings he hosted at the historic Leonard Reid House were spaces filled with friends, fellowship, joy, conversation, and connection. These moments brought people together in meaningful ways,” said SAACC President and CEO Vickie Oldham. 

As a board member and chair of the organization’s governance committee Brock’s commitment was unwavering. He was a person of action who moved with purpose leading in negotiating contracts, facilitating strategic planning sessions that focused on branding and marketing, and teaching  workshops about “design thinking,” a concept he taught teams at Frito Lay and Tropicana where he served as President and CEO. 

“His expertise in brand development and product launches strengthened our work tremendously,” said SAACC board chair Dr. Washington Hill.

Philanthropists, policymakers, and Unitarian Universalists church members and leaders were introduced to SAACC through Brock who used his influence to propel its mission. 

Rev. Dr. Brock Leach, a Boston University–educated Doctor of Ministry was an ordained church leader who shared brief affirmations before board meetings “that centered us and reminded us about purpose,” said SAACC board member LaTiara Love. “We are deeply grateful for the way he embraced us and uplifted Black arts, culture, and history with genuine care and conviction,” Love  added. His insight, wisdom, and passion were truly inspiring,” Love shared.

“Brock’s fingerprints are throughout our organization and his impact is profound. To say that I personally will miss his quiet demeanor and wisdom is an understatement,” said SAACC board member Ian Black. “He was truly a difference maker,” said another board member Walter Gilbert. 

Our hearts are heavy at the news of his passing. We extend our love and prayers of peace to Julie, his children, and all who loved him, including the family dog who was always by his side.

The SAACC family will carry Brock’s legacy forward with gratitude and love. 

The Leonard Reid House is bursting with joy, connection, and purpose this spring. Every corner  has a painting, an African artifact or piece of jewelry that evokes a smile. Every gathering created new memories and special moments are grounded in LOVE (such as when kids hit the stage at our first kids book festival). With high gas prices and groceries, let’s embrace every bit of beauty and happiness that can be found. I am thrilled about ongoing Reid House centennial celebrations and our incredible momentum during the 2026 Giving Challenge.  

162. That’s the number of donors who stepped forward for SAACC during a 24-hour fundraising frenzy. Their gifts up to $100 were matched. But this number represents much more than participation. It reflects increasing support, commitment, and a growing MOVEMENT. What a proud moment for all of us working to present relevant and compelling Black arts, culture and history programming…..

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 26, 2026

Reid House Kids Book Fair Celebrates Literacy, Legacy, and Community

Sarasota, FL — The Reid House Kids Book Fair will bring together families, authors, and community members for a
celebration of literacy, culture, and creativity from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 4 at the historic Leonard Reid
House, located at 2529 N. Orange Avenue. The event is in conjunction with Newtown’s annual Spring Fling Easter parade
along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way.

The book fair highlights the importance of reading while uplifting Black stories and storytellers. Featured activities are
live entertainment, spoken word performances, storytelling, face painting, bounce houses, vendors, an Easter egg hunt,
and opportunities to meet local authors. Free books and holiday treats will be distributed to children.

The enduring legacy of Leonard Reid and his beloved wife Eddye is honored. Their home, originally located at Boulevard
of the Arts and Coconut Avenue served as a hub for literacy and community care. Known as a neighborhood “library,” it
was a place where free books were shared, inspiring generations through access to reading and education.

The entertainment lineup will feature performances by Mr. Stevey, Whit The Poet, Frankie Brown, Syesha, A’rayia
Davis, Amillia, Mya Barber, Sammy Waite, Amel Hunter, Jahkori, the Trinity Teen and Youth Choir, the Potter School
Drumline, the Lockhart Twins, and Alpha and Omega Incorporated Sorority.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet and engage with a diverse group of authors, including Whit the Poet, Dr.
Sharon Jefferson, Betty Jean Johnson, Helen R. James, Rosa Thomas, Xtavia Bailey, Vickie Oldham, Enid Marshall,
Jahkori Dopwell-Hall, Jeannie Wooten, and Andrea “Chocolate Butterfly” Williams.

Confirmed vendors include Kona Ice, Bat City Comic Professionals, Nhouse Taste of Soul, Jahko Designs, Angels Food
with Soul, Suncoast Remake Learning, Filet of Soul, The Lady with Nuts, Betty Jean Johnson North Sarasota Library,
Stitching Bluez, and Aloe Thought Media.

The Reid House Kids Book Fair is produced by Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition and Greatness Beyond
Measure. Major sponsors include Alpha Phi Alpha Foundation of Manasota, the Xi Psi Lambda Chapter, the Johnson
Singer Arts Education Foundation, Barbershop Men of Prayer and First Watch.

This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. Book donations are welcome. For more information please
call Melanie Thomas (941) 744-7314 or email aaccsrq@gmail.com.

About Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition
Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC) is a tax exempt, 501c 3 organization dedicated to
preserving, celebrating, and sharing the cultural, artistic, and historical heritage of African Americans in
Sarasota and beyond. To learn more about SAACC’s mission, please visit https://thesaacc.org/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2026

Local Organization Soars into Centennial Year Celebration of the Leonard Reid House
SARASOTA, Fla. — The historic Leonard Reid House celebrates 100 years in existence with an array of events
throughout the year. From a presentation about parrots, to a book fair celebrating access to literacy, the family
friendly events commemorate the core beliefs of the pioneering family who shaped Sarasota’s history.

In collaboration with Jungle Gardens’ avian keepers, Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC)
presents, “Hello Pretty Bird.” It’s an hourlong program about the world of colorful parrots and the stories of
Overtown residents who remember the Reid family’s two large, talking birds. The event takes place at 2529 N.
Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL from 1 – 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 12.

Leonard Reid came to Sarasota in 1900. He was valedictorian of Savannah Normal School (now known as
Savannah State University). He valued education, and his home became a “library” where free books were
given to neighborhood children. A book fair on the grounds is coming Saturday, April 4. Please donate new and
gently used children’s books to the Reid House. Please call 941-667-0867.

“We continue the family’s legacy by providing free books to children who visit,” said president of the Sarasota
African American Cultural Coalition Vickie Oldham.

Upcoming Centennial Celebration Events:
● March 12, 1 p.m. – “Hello, Pretty Bird” explores the world of parrots. Two were pets of the Reid family.
● March 26, 6:30 p.m. – Sarasota historian John McCarthy joins architectural historian Dave Baber for a talk.
● April 4, 10 a.m. – A children’s book fair celebrating the Reid House’s “community library.”
● May 10, 11 a.m. – A Mother’s Day event will honor Ethel Reid and Viola Reid.

The family patriarch saved to purchase property. A session is coming up about managing money. A
horticulturist leads a workshop about African and Florida native plants surrounding the Reid House.
The home was meticulously relocated from Overtown to Newtown. Learn more about upcoming centennial
celebrations at www.thesaacc.org and social media platforms.

About Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition
Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC) is a 501c 3 dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and
sharing the cultural, artistic, and historical heritage of African Americans in Sarasota and beyond. To learn more
about SAACC’s mission, please visit https://thesaacc.org/.

Published Stories:

SRQ: Local Organization Soars into Centennial Year Celebration of the Leonard Reid House

WSLR: Sarasota’s Leonard Reid House turns 100

FOX13 TAMPA BAY: Sarasota’s Leonard Reid House celebrates 100 years as community beacon for African American history

YAHOO: Sarasota’s Leonard Reid House celebrates 100 years as community beacon for African American history

BAY NEWS 9: 100 Years Later: The Legacy of Black History

OBSERVER: Historic Leonard Reid House hosts parrots in honor of family pets

The Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition recently began planting a new butterfly and pollinator garden at the historic Leonard Reid House, with help from students at Precious Jewels Academy. The garden will support local pollinators and honor influential Black leaders through a legacy walkway.

Another planting day is set for July 31 with Girls Inc. and Star Lab students. Community members can get involved by donating supplies or volunteering. Donations will be accepted on June 21 and July 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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