FOUNDATION HIGHLIGHTS

JRF PRESENTS 4TH ANNUAL JAZZ on the GRASS BENEFIT

The Jackie Robinson Foundation announces the 4th Annual JAZZ on the Grass benefit concert scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2009 at the home of supporters Lynne and Oz Scott in Sherman Oaks, California. Approaching its fourth year on the West Coast, JAZZ on the Grass has secured the distinction as one of Los Angeles’ most premiere and exclusive events.  Thanks to the incredible support of corporate sponsors, a dedicated host committee and loyal attendees, JAZZ has become the Foundation’s signature West Coast event. To date, 94.7 The Wave, American Airlines, Anheuser-Busch, Broadway Federal Bank, CBS, City National Bank, DLA Piper, ESPN Zone, Hennessy, New Era, Nordstrom, Pepsi, Save the Date and UCLA have all signed on to support this affair. To learn more about how your company can support JAZZ on the Grass or for information on how to purchase tickets, please contact the Western Regional offices at 213-330-7726 or CLICK HERE

JR DAY COMMEMORATED AT NATION'S BALL PARKS

JRF Scholars join CitiGroup officials and JRF President/CEO Della Britton Baeza at tthe new CitiField as baseball commemorates Jackie Robinson Day on April 15th

As the nation paused to commemorate the 62nd anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball’s color barrier, 63 Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars were highlighted in pre-game ceremonies across the nation at 15 baseball stadiums.  The landmark commemoration was hosted in New York at the Mets new home, Citi Field and began with an afternoon dedication of the Jackie Robinson Rotunda, the iconic entryway to the stadium.  The Rotunda pays homage to the nine values by which Jackie Robinson lived with larger-than-life images and words, and evokes the feel of Ebbets Field, the Brooklyn baseball cathedral in which Jackie played for the Dodgers. At the national celebration in New York, nine Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars and Alumni were recognized in a poignant pre-game ceremony.  JRF/BMO Capital Markets Scholar Christopher Alston performed a moving rendition of the National Anthem.  JRF Founder Rachel Robinson addressed the capacity crowd of over 40,000 prior to the game. Building on the more than 330 players and on-field staff members who wore Jackie’s Number 42 last year, Major League Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig requested that all on-field personnel wear the number as a sign of League-wide unity. Since 2004, MLB has honored Robinson’s legacy with a day dedicated to his memory. In recognition of Jackie Robinson Day, one Number 42 jersey from every club will be team-signed and auctioned off on MLB.com with the proceeds benefitting the Jackie Robinson Foundation.

Watch Christopher Alston's performance at Citi Field

NEWARK BEARS ANNOUNCE SUPPORT FOR JACKIE ROBINSON FOUNDATION

President/CEO Della Britton Baeza accepts check from Newark Bears co-owner Jim Wankmiller.

JRF CELEBRATES 2009 ROBIE AWARD WINNERS

L-R: JRF Chairman Leonard S. Coleman Jr.; JRF Annual Awards Dinner Chair and Air Products Chairman, President and CEO John McGlade, JRF President and CEO Della Britton Baeza, JRF Founder Rachel Robinson, JRF ROBIE Award Recipients Robert Redford, Robin Roberts and Dr. Ben Carson Sr.

The Jackie Robinson Foundation held its 2009 Annual Awards Dinner on Monday, March 16th at New York’s venerable Waldorf=Astoria hotel. Hosted by legendary entertainer Bill Cosby for nearly three decades, the iconic event paid tribute to individuals who embody the humanitarian ideals of Jackie Robinson. This years honorees included Robin Roberts, Good Morning America co-host, who was recognized not only her own pioneering career in broadcasting, but also for her unwavering commitment to advancing social change through her reporting. World renowned physician, educator and Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at John Hopkins University, Dr. Benjamin Carson, Sr., was also honored.  His breakthrough research and patient care has dramatically improved the human condition and he has served as a mentor and role model for scores of African American youth across the country who dream of becoming physicians.   In addition, the Foundation honored Robert Redford, founder of the Sundance Film Festival and one of the most iconic actors of our time. This entrepreneur and trailblazer in the world of cinema has spent his career opening doors for many giving voice to young filmmakers. Over 1000 guests supported this year's event. >>MORE

JRF SCHOLARS COME TOGETHER FOR ANNUAL NETWORKING WEEKEND

Youth Ventures' Divine Bradley addresses JRF Scholars at Networking Weekend.

JRF Scholars from across the nation converged on New York City to attend the Foundation's Networking Weekend. For four days, Scholars had the opportunity to network with other talented students, JRF alumni and staff, and participate in a bevy of leadership workshops, luncheons and topical panel discussions led by industry leaders. In addition, Make It Plain, a Sirius XM's show hosted by Mark Thompson (Matsimela Mapfumo) broadcasted live from the Crowne Plaza. The one-hour talk show featured JRF Founder Rachel Robinson, JRF Board Secretary Martin Edelman and JRF President/CEO Della Britton Baeza. Thompson was joined by Washington Post columnist Eugene Robinson and NPR's Alison Stewart in a spirited political panel moderated by Edelman which reflected on the historic election year. Scholars and alumni further honored Jackie’s legacy by donating their time and efforts through the JRF Alumni and Scholar Community Service Initiative.