A Dutchess County NAACP chapter has a new leader.

Gilbert West is the new president of the Northern Dutchess NAACP, and says he vows to keep the 100-year-old organization's values alive locally.

"Dealing with the health, education issues in the community, the criminal justice and civic engagement in the community, as well as the economic issues in the community -- at the same time, uplifting our youth," says West.

West is taking the helm from the late Elouise Maxey, who was president for two decades before her passing last month.

"And I'm hoping I can keep up the proud tradition and honor, that previous presidents, such as Mrs. Maxey, have exhibited over the years," says West.

Leading is not new for West: He previously served as president of Protect the Dream youth program, Black Executives of the Hudson Valley and created the Ghetto to Greatness foundation 10 years ago which gives scholarships to college students.

The Iona graduate is a lawyer and a minister at Beulah Baptist Church in Poughkeepsie.

"My pastor has a saying, don't be a national hero and a local zero. So as opposed to fighting on the national stage or international stage, I'm glad to be right here, home in Poughkeepsie, fighting for the people in the community," says West.