One of the country's most recognizable civil rights organizations is about to reach the century mark this week and some local leaders are looking to celebrate.

On Thursday, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored people reaches its 100th anniversary. The momentous occasion will be met in Auburn with a social gathering and a chance for storytelling.

Eli Hernandez, president of the Auburn NAACP chapter, said Thursday's gathering will be one of many celebrations across the country in honor of the organization's birthday.

“It is going to be a chance for people to share and have a good time,” Hernandez said.

The anniversary party will feature local community leader Jack Hardy, who will tell stories of some of the city's civil rights pioneers. Hardy's own father, Charles, was Auburn's first black firefighter.

Refreshments will also be served at the celebration, which will be open to the public.

Thursday will not be the last opportunity for locals to celebrate the NAACP's 100th anniversary. Hernandez said the chapter is hard at work planning a banquet that will be held in May. The event will recognize the national organization's milestone as well as the Auburn chapter's 41st anniversary.

Hernandez said it is important to recognize this momentous occasion to allow each other to appreciate how far we have come as a society.

“Despite racism and despite segregation, we've learned to be able to survive through the steady commitment of volunteerism,” he said.

Hernandez said this celebration will be made even more special, as the country recently elected its first black president. But there is still more to be done, he said.

“We need to be around for the next 100 years so we can continue to fight for the equality of all,” Hernandez said.

If you go:

What: NAACP 100th Anniversary

When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday

Where: Booker T. Washington Community Center, 23 Chapman Ave., Auburn