A Legend Lives On: How the Robinson Family Continues to Impact Others

Written by Paul Anglade:

The term student-athlete is meant to imply that academics come first. Aware of that importance, Rachel Robinson, the widow of MLB legend Jackie Robinson, wanted to incorporate an organization that gives scholarship opportunities to students in financially tough situations. In a time where black people did not get the best treatment, when it came to sports and educational opportunities, Jackie was always fighting for disadvantaged communities on and off the field. 

There used to be a general consensus that kids who grow up and live around certain under privledged areas should not be treated the same as others. The Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF) helps to shine a bright light on these communities that are impacted by low educational standards and inadequate sports facilities. The kids did not ask to be born into these situations, and JRF has helped many kids find their way out of difficult circumstances and into brighter futures. 

JRF Scholars receive college scholarships of up to $35,000 over four years and are financially sponsored to attend JRF‘s annual, four-day “Mentoring and Leadership Conference” in New York City and other events throughout the year. Permanent job placements and internships are important opportunities available through the organization as well, and are offered to all recipients. 

It can be tough for kids from impoverished neighborhoods to feel like they fit in with others sometimes. When Jackie started playing baseball in the Negro leagues, he felt that it was not right that black baseball players could not play in the Major leagues, and was determined to make a change for all black players that would come after him. His breaking of baseball’s color barrier is influential to every minority baseball player today. His foundation also influences many kids in poorer areas so that they can achieve their dreams with hard work and dedication.