Senator Monica R. Martinez Recognizes Chamber’s Leadership in Advancing Economic Empowerment, Minority Entrepreneurship, and Small Business Development Across Long Island
BRENTWOOD, NY — March 8, 2026 — The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) was honored with a Legacy Award by the New York State Senate during the annual Black History Month Celebration hosted by New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez, who represents the Fourth Senatorial District in Suffolk County.
The recognition highlights the Chamber’s longstanding commitment to economic empowerment, minority business development, entrepreneurship, and community leadership across Long Island and New York State.
The celebration brought together community leaders, educators, first responders, entrepreneurs, veterans, and nonprofit organizations whose contributions continue to strengthen communities throughout Suffolk County.
“Organizations like the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce play a vital role in advancing economic opportunity and supporting small businesses throughout our region,” said Senator Monica R. Martinez. “Their leadership helps create pathways for entrepreneurs and strengthens our local economy.”
Strengthening Minority Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity
Under the leadership of Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, the organization has become a leading advocate for minority-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and economic development initiatives across Long Island.
The Chamber works to expand opportunities for small businesses by connecting entrepreneurs with business resources, government programs, contracting opportunities, and strategic partnerships that help businesses grow and thrive.
“This recognition from the New York State Senate is an honor that reflects the collective work of our members, partners, and community leaders who believe in the power of entrepreneurship and economic empowerment,” said Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce. “Our mission is to continue building pathways that support minority-owned businesses, strengthen communities, and create generational economic opportunity.”
The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce also works closely with local governments, chambers of commerce, business leaders, and nonprofit organizations to advocate for policies and programs that support small business growth, workforce development, and economic inclusion.
“The recognition during Black History Month by NY State Monica R. Martinez is an important milestone for the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. The chamber looks foward to expanding our footprint in Suffolk County, and building an ecosystem that will strengthen the capacity of Minority-Owned, Veteran-Owned, and Women-Owned businesses in Suffolk County.” Rose Ward, Vice President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Currently, a grant is available for Suffolk County Businesses via a grant provided to Suffolk County from funds which were provided to the county from funds obtained through the American Rescue Act. For more information regarding how Suffolk County Businesses can apply for the grant visit: https://about.bytrellus.com/programs/liaacc-jumpsmart-grant/ Up to $2500 grant program for Local Delivery Support! Click on above link for complete details.
Grant program for LIAACC Members located in Suffolk County. This grant can help jumpstart or boost your Local Same-Day Delivery saving you time & money!
Additional Honorees Recognized
The Black History Month celebration also recognized numerous individuals and organizations whose leadership and service have had a lasting impact on the community.
Honorees included:
Entrepreneur Award
Black Momma Vodka
First Responder Award
Charles Goodman
Student Leadership Award
Marcellus Bradford
Community Leadership Award
Gerri Coleman-Odom
Educator Awards
Kenneth McCloud
Dr. Nathaniel Marner
Jonathan Morgan
Dr. Maria Cox-Vineyard
Law Enforcement Award
Michael St. Lewis Jr.
Religious Leader Award
Zorina Costello
Veteran Award
Gizzryl Cook
Rev. Leonard M. Davis
Not-for-Profit Leadership Award
Vanda Bordies
Additional Legacy Award recipients included:
• Islip-Smithtown NAACP Branch, Bethel A.M.E. Church of Copiague
• Belmont Lake Civic Association, 100 Black Men of Eastern New York
The event also featured cultural presentations and performances that highlighted the contributions of African American leaders and organizations in shaping communities across Suffolk County.
About the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce: The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is one of the leading advocates for minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in the region. The Chamber works to promote economic development, small business growth, and business advocacy across Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, and Brooklyn.
Through networking initiatives, educational programs, policy advocacy, and partnerships with public and private sector leaders, the Chamber supports the growth and sustainability of minority-owned businesses while strengthening the regional economy.
The organization also plays a key role in connecting entrepreneurs with resources that support business expansion, government contracting opportunities, financial access, and workforce development.
For more information about the L.I. African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. or to become a member visit:
www.liaacc.org
