Franklin Primary Health Center, Inc. will honor five decades of dedication to community healthcare with its inaugural Founder's Day Gala on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025.

The event will celebrate the legacy of the center's founders and their contributions to the Davis Avenue community, where the organization began its mission to provide essential healthcare services to underserved populations.

The gala, set to take place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel in downtown Mobile, marks Franklin Primary's 50th anniversary as a federally qualified health center. Distinguished guests, including founding board members and their families, will be recognized for their pivotal roles in the organization's history.

The evening will feature the presentation of two prestigious awards: the Dr. James Alexander Franklin Humanitarian Award and the Aiello-Buskey Leadership in Community Health Award. These honors will highlight the exceptional contributions of two individuals whose work embodies Franklin Primary's values of service, compassion and impactful community leadership. The awards pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. James Franklin, Dr. Marilyn Aiello and Mr. James Buskey, whose vision and dedication have shaped the center's mission.

Adding star power to the occasion, NFL legend and entrepreneur Emmitt James Smith will deliver the keynote address. Smith, the league's all-time leading rusher and a 2010 inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, has transitioned from a celebrated football career to becoming a successful businessman. His ventures span real estate, construction and technology, while his philanthropic work focuses on providing educational opportunities for underserved youth nationwide.

Tickets for the event can be purchased through Franklin Primary's website, https://franklinprimary.org/.