The NAACP Centennial Convention provided an opportunity for young and old alike to meet, network and discuss some of our communities most pressing problems such as predatory lending and HIV/AIDS. As the organization celebrates 100 years of history and victories, its leaders are fighting the claim that the NAACP is irrelevant. With the election of the country's first Black president, many believe the civil rights organization should be hanging up its hat instead of gearing up for another century of work. But President and CEO Benjamin Jealous reminded convention attendees in his opening speech earlier this week that the NAACP "...ain't just a Black organization." Jealous said the NAACP will focus more on human rights during his term.

Younger members agree with Jealous's mission. "It's still relevant because of its history," said 17-year-old Alisha Frier. "We, as kids, need to know about our history and we learn more by coming together. The NAACP is always here to support us and help us when we need it." Frier, who's from Baltimore, has been a youth member of the organization for six years. Her close friend Christina Whittle, 17, also from Baltimore, joined the NAACP five years ago.

"My youth pastor is in the NAACP and asked me if I wanted to join. It helps that a lot of my friends are in it too," said Whittle.

Whittle, Frier and many other youth members continue to express a deep enthusiasm and dedication to an organization that was founded years before their great-grandparents were even born.

"My grandmother was a lifetime member," said Whittle. "I've met different people from different states at the convention and we've been able to discuss problems that are happening across the country like the "I Am Troy" campaign."