Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth. — Shirley Chisholm

CHAACA_President_TinaTruitt-Oneal-headshot

CHAACA President
Tina Truitt-O’Neal

Transforming Lives for 46 years

Our History and Mission

The Cherry Hill African American Civic Association (CHAACA), formerly the Cherry Hill Minority Civic Association, was organized in 1978 by a concerned group of African American residents. They sought a unified voice in the community and stood on robust principles that would ultimately lead to positive change. Along with these principles and the three pillars upon which CHAACA is built—Unity, Service, and Purpose—the organization has been and continues to be recognized by Cherry Hill Township, the Cherry Hill Board of Education, and the New Jersey General Assembly. CHAACA continues to grow, bring awareness to the community, and, as always, get into "good trouble."

Continuing a Legacy

Advocacy, Education, and Community Engagement

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Get to know us

Services, Programs & Initiatives

The Cherry Hill African American Civic Association (CHAACA) offers a range of impactful services, programs, and initiatives designed to empower and uplift the African American community. CHAACA provides scholarships to local students, supporting their academic journeys and celebrating their achievements through the annual Scholarship Celebration. The Juneteenth Parade and Festival is a vibrant community event that honors the rich history and culture of African Americans while fostering unity and pride. The Reverend Ivan George Essay-Video-Poster Contest encourages students to creatively express their understanding of Black history, inspiring engagement and education. CHAACA’s Black History Program highlights the significant contributions of African Americans, fostering cultural awareness and pride within the community. Through various outreach efforts, CHAACA engages with the broader Cherry Hill community, promoting initiatives that address pressing needs and advocating for positive change. 

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Supporting Youth Welfare

Scholarships

From the start, CHAACA's organizers recognized the urgent need to support the next generation in Cherry Hill and beyond. Our Bylaws reflect this commitment, dedicating us to the welfare of young people in their homes, schools, and community. In 1982, CHAACA began awarding scholarships to high school seniors who demonstrated scholastic excellence and embodied the values of "unity, service, and purpose."That year, five scholarships were awarded. Since then, CHAACA has provided more than $375,000 in scholarships. This achievement would not have been possible without the generosity of our members and the broader community. Over the years, many CHAACA members have played a key role in contributing to and supporting our scholarship efforts.

The CHAACA Scholarship

Beginning in 2025, CHAACA's scholarship will be named in honor of William "Bill" McCargo, who passed away on August 10, 2023. A longtime member of CHAACA and former President, Bill, along with his wife Pat, played a key role in securing major scholarship donations from companies and community members. Bill also served in the U.S. Air Force, as a Cherry Hill Police Officer (1969-1994), on the New Jersey State Parole Board, and as a Commissioner of the Cherry Hill Fire Department.

A Tradition of Giving

Over the years, many CHAACA members have generously supported our scholarships. Notable recurring scholarships include the Yolanda Jones Mapp scholarship for medical degrees, the Chanette Orange memorial scholarship for college support, the Arthur Lewis “Trailblazer" scholarship for academic leaders, the Lawyer Chapman scholarship for future teachers, and the Robin Miller scholarship for medical students. Additional scholarships have been awarded in honor of Neville and Hyacinth Holder, Evelyn Lewis, Joyce Walker, Renee Carter, Mayor David Fleisher, and others.

2010 - 2012

London University

Accolaides

Testimonials, Awards, Mentions

Cherry Hill Mayor

David Fleisher

CHAACA has been a valued organization in Cherry Hill for generations, bringing the African American community together and championing important issues on education and social justice. We are fortunate to have CHAACA as a community partner and it is a privilege to work with its members to foster a culture of respect and inclusion here in town, said Mayor Fleisher. “Cherry Hill is a better place because of CHAACA.”

President, Camden Couty East NAACP

Lloyd D. Henderson, Esq.

CHAACA has had tremendous influence on the Cherry Hill community…past and present. I’m so grateful for their support as a community partnership a a voice for the African American community especially I’m also very appreciative for having been selected as the first Grand Marshal for the Annual Juneteenth Parade and Festival in 2021. We have also participated in and supported the subsequent yearly celebration. If you live in Cherry Hill, you really should be an active supporter of CHAACA. They’re doing a great job! Thank you…

2020

City Mayor Awards

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2018

VP of Collage

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Testimonials

What they’re saying.