ATLANTA, Jan. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Our
organization is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of baseball
legend and beloved member of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Hank
Aaron, at 86.
"A legend has fallen. Mr. Aaron was the true embodiment of the
strength, perseverance, and resilience of African Americans across
this nation," said Kevin Gooch,
chairman of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta. "He became a national hero by
fighting through unparalleled hatred and adversity to ascend to the
top of the mountain of 'America's Pastime' with 755 home
runs."
Aaron was a beloved legacy member of the 100 Black Men of
Atlanta since 1995. His
contributions to the organization helped improved the lives of
thousands of young people throughout the Atlanta metro area.
Chairman Gooch continued, "Mr. Aaron's lasting impact, which was
made alongside his loving wife, Billye, was his unrelenting service
and dedication to his community by supporting college scholarships
for vulnerable young people, creating economic opportunities
through his many business ventures and many, many other community
endeavors."
Henry "Hammerin' Hank" Aaron was born in Mobile, Alabama, on February 5, 1934. Aaron was one of eight children
to his parents Herbert and Estella
Aaron.
In 1951, Aaron began his historic baseball career as a shortstop
for the Indianapolis Clowns in the segregated negro leagues. A few
seasons later, Aaron was signed as a left fielder for the Milwaukee
Braves which later moved to his long-time home of Atlanta in 1966.
Aaron was best known for passing Babe Ruth's all-time homerun
record on April 8, 1974 and set a new
one at 755; a record that lasted decades after his
retiring.
"He will be sorely missed by all that knew him and knew of his
legend. May the Lord rest his soul. Job well done," stated chairman
Gooch.
About 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc.
100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc.
is a non-profit organization providing college preparatory services
and mentorship to at-risk, Atlanta
youth through its flagship program Project Success. Since its
inception in 1987, 100% of the students who complete Project
Success have graduated from high school and 80% have graduated from
college in four years, far outpacing the national averages.
Project Success is differentiated by the strength of its
civic-minded mentors who comprise the membership of the
organization. Members dedicate their time and talent to helping
boys and girls break the cycles of poverty, under-achievement, and
violence that plague their communities thus enabling them to seek
their highest potential.
Visit www.100blackmen-atlanta.org for information and to make
charitable contributions to Project Success.
CONTACT:
Allison Joyner
Allison Joyner Enterprises
Allison@allisonjoyner.com
CELL: (601)951-3154
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SOURCE 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc.