The annual membership drive for the Mathews Branch NAACP has begun and will continue through June. The branch has been serving Mathews County since 1944.

Membership is open to anyone who is committed to the group’s mission and vision. The mission of the NAACP is to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights for all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination, a release stated. The vision of the NAACP is ensuring a society in which all individuals have equal rights and there is no racial hatred or racial discrimination, according to the release.

Due to a generous donation, the Mathews NAACP is offering a free one-year membership to individuals who have not been an active Mathews Branch NAACP member for at least 10 years and are otherwise qualified, as long as funds last. The membership dues are $30 annually for adults and $10 for youth.

Benefits of membership include participation in monthly meetings, receipt of notices for m...