Major Leaguers Provide $42,000 Grant to Honor Legacy of Jackie Robinson
Players Trust bestows $42,000 grant to the Jackie Robinson Foundation
NEW YORK, Monday, April 17, 2017 /3BL Media/ -- Major League baseball players will once again proudly bestow a $42,000 grant from the Players Trust to the Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF), the Trust announced on Friday, April 14 – the day before the baseball world celebrated the 70th anniversary of when Jackie made his Major League debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers and, by doing so, courageously shattered the game’s color barrier.
Iconic American figure Jackie Robinson, not only paved the way for other minority players, his determination inspired others to challenge the status quo. For the past 43 years, the Jackie Robinson Foundation has continued Jackie’s commitment to equal opportunity by addressing the achievement gap in higher education.
Last year, the Players Trust provided its first $42,000 grant to support JRF’s celebrated college scholarship program. The Trust’s contribution funded a JRF/ Players Trust Scholar and provided additional funds allowing JRF to expand its vital programmatic services.
“As a Trustee of the Players Trust, and a former Major Leaguer, it’s a privilege and an honor to announce the continuation of our support of the Jackie Robinson Foundation and its efforts to provide a brighter future to those in need,” stated MLBPA Executive Director, Tony Clark. “Jackie Robinson’s legacy transcends baseball and his influence on others know no geographic boundaries. Personally, Jackie’s accomplishments, impact on and off the field, and his character, continue to provide me with inspiration and serve as a guide.”
"We are just thrilled to receive support from the Major League Baseball Players Trust again this year, as we commemorate the 70th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s barrier-breaking feat," said Della Britton Baeza, Jackie Robinson Foundation President, and CEO. “The mission of the Players Trust reflects the values that Jackie Robinson displayed – which are the very values we promote among the young people we serve. We are grateful for this terrific partnership.”
Founded in 1973 by Rachel Robinson, the Foundation has advanced higher education by providing generous, multi-year scholarship awards coupled with a comprehensive set of support services to highly motivated JRF Scholars and Extra Innings Fellows attending colleges and universities throughout the country.
About the Players Trust
Through the Players Trust, Major Leaguers contribute their time, money and celebrity to call attention to important causes affecting the needy and to help encourage others to get involved in their own communities. In partnership with Volunteers of America, the national human service organization, the Players Trust created and helps administer the Action Team, a national youth volunteer program currently training and inspiring the next generation of volunteers in cities throughout the United States. For more information on the Major League Baseball Players Trust, please visit www.PlayersTrust.org
About the Jackie Robinson Foundation
Established in 1973 to perpetuate Jackie Robinson’s memory, the Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF), a national, public, non-profit organization, administers one of the nation’s premier education and leadership development programs for minority college students. In addition to generous financial assistance, JRF offers a comprehensive set of support services that includes mentoring, job placement, career guidance, leadership training and practical life skills. JRF’s celebrated four-year program yields a consistent, 98% college graduation rate. JRF has provided over $70 million in grants and direct program support to 1,500 students who have attended over 225 colleges and universities. For more information visit www.jackierobinson.org.
