Benard Simelton, NAACP state president, spoke to local members Tuesday night in Clanton.

NAACP State President Benard Simelton spoke words of encouragement and gave advice to members of the Chilton County chapter of the NAACP during a meeting Tuesday night.

Ben Chaney, NAACP Clanton/Chilton County Branch president, began the meeting highlighting past accomplishments the organization has made.

Evangelist Robert Binion introduced Simelton as he prepared to address the audience.

“I’m happy to be able to be here this evening and I thank Brother Chaney for the invite,” said Simelton. “And because you are here, it shows that you are interested in the NAACP.”

Simelton went on to explain how powerful the organization could be if citizens all worked together and how it is all about getting people together for a common cause.

“It takes us all working together to make this organization a success,” he said. “Membership is the life blood of the organization. If there are no members, then it will die out. We need to bring new and young blood to the organization.”

After his speech, Simelton wanted to have dialogue with the audience so he opened the floor for questions and answers.

The members expressed their issues and concerns and what they think needs to be accomplished for the betterment of the organization.

“I go everywhere to try to get members; I do not let anything stop me,” said Binion. “I know how important it is to have an NAACP in every county. We have to continue to go different places to get new members.”

Simelton encouraged everyone to attend the NAACP Regional Conference this weekend that will begin Thursday, March 24 in Montgomery.