The local NAACP branch will host its annual Soul Food Dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at First Baptist Church, 1330 Kasold Drive.

Donna Bell, president of the Lawrence-Douglas County branch of the NAACP, said this year’s dinner will be different from past events. She said the dinner will feature artwork from various artists in the Douglas County area.

“We have been really aware of the talent here,” Bell said, “and we wanted to show this talent to the community.”

Proceeds from the dinner will go to a scholarship fund for two high school seniors from Lawrence or Free State high schools.

Bell said many of the scholarship recipients are first-generation college students who have excelled academically in high school.

“It’s real encouraging that people they don’t even know care about their future education,” she said.

Tickets for the event cost $10 and can be purchased at the church door. Bell said dinners will be served as long as supplies last, so she encourages people to arrive early.