The National Council of Negro Women's 24th annual Black History Month Luncheon at the Garden City Hotel paid homage to current leaders and those who paved the way.

Katherine Mahoney, the president of the Long Island cross section of the organization, told News 12 that the luncheon is an effort to solidify the legacy of African-American achievement.

"The National Council of Negro Women is an organization that can keep this concept alive and contribute to the union of all people, not just us. But in order to be a contributor, you've got to know where you came from," says Mahoney.

The event is one of the biggest fundraisers on Long Island for the National Council of Negro Women. The organization's mission is to advance opportunities for African-American women and, in turn, their families and communities.

Among those honored were Nassau County Sheriff Vera Fludd. Fludd made history as the county's first female and first African-American sheriff. She told News 12 that she often reflects on paths of African-Americans who paved the way for her and others.

"We are the dream. We are their answered prayers. That's what we are," says Fludd.

Proceeds from the event will help fund outreach programs focused on health and education.