The award was started in 2001. For history click the links below
In 1995 one lady Ms. Delores Hightower a devoted Christian lady and lover of Live music had an idea to start an awards ceremony to acknowledge local entertainer's and bring people together. She would often support live entertainment and was surprised to learn that many of the people that she was meeting worked with major artists like Billy Paul, Nina Simone, and Grover Washington Jr.. , Patti Labelle and a host of others. She was also surprised that there wasn't much support for the entertainer's her idea was to start an award to bring people together and recognize who they are and introduce them to the rest of the world.
They're missing it she would often say....She also asked if the support is not here how do they afford to seek medical attention it's apparent they don't get paid a lot of money, is this how they make their living? She had many questions and she looked to me her daughter and asked can't we do something?
Born in Pittsburgh PA with a broken back in 1923 Delores was tossed in a trash can and left to die One of the nurses sent back to clean the room noticed her in the trash can still alive. She wrapped the small fragile baby in a towel and hid her until her shift was over. That nurse worked around the clock to keep her alive and one year later contacted Delore's biological mother. The nurse had been told that Delores would never walk and although she wore braces on her legs until she was twelve she attended regular school and went onto a local college to become a secretary. She loved to dance and won many dance competitions. She was a devoted mother , great role model and had a sense of humor that was unbelievable . When she passed away in 1998 she left $500 to be used in any way. After 3 years of grieving and several months of planning The Versatility Entertainment & Image Awards were started. That was in 2001. To date the award has been given to well over 100 people many are musicians.
THE SELECTION PROCESS
In January of each year anyone who has received the award before can suggest who they want to see receive the award. As long as the person has never received a major award before and has a proven track record of ten years in the business or of community service they are eligible. The person could be an entertainer or positive image. It could be someone in the community who has helped others.
THE VERSATILITY ENTERTAINMENT & IMAGE AWARD
The ceremony is held in June in honor of Black Music Month. This is a major event for us and the biggest of the year. Our past guest speakers have included recording artists and Grammy Winners from the Philadelphia area. Proceeds from the event thus far have funded other community events. We do however hope to soon go nonprofit and start an emergency fund for performers in the Philadelphia area.
OUR STAFF
Our small staff consists of all volunteers. Some of whom are artists. Others consist of supporters who help market and promote events.
