Crenshaw County residents recently started a new chapter of the NAACP. At the organization’s first meeting, about 60 people attended.

Lorey Bogen said the county has been in dire need of the nonprofit group, which fights for equal rights.

“We’re really the only county that hasn’t had an NAACP in a long time,” he said. “When people get in trouble, they come to me. This will take the burden off me a lot. With an organization involved, you’ll get things done faster.”

Without an NAACP, Bogen said people turned to the local Alabama Democratic Conference when they had an issue, but resolving conflicts and handling equal rights was not a role the political organization intended to handle.

“We’re encouraging people in the county to get involved with the NAACP. The NAACP is not just for one color. It’s for all colors. White, black, Hispanic, whatever you are. NAACP fights for justice. That’s really what it stands for,” Bogen said. “Don’t wait until something happens to you or you need help.”

Membership dues are $30. Those 18 and under may join for $15. A lifetime membership is $700 and can be paid in installments.

The organization’s next meeting will be this Monday at 7 p.m. at King’s Chapel on 10th street.

“Listen, join and get involved,” Bogen said.

For more information, contact Dennis Bogen at 429-1933 or Lorey Bogen at 672-4794.