Annual Gala Returned After Two–Year Hiatus
Los Angeles Dodgers Mookie Betts was honored with the Pioneer of African American Achievement Award by the Brotherhood Crusade on Friday, Dec.9, at the organization’s 54th Annual Award Gala. The event was celebrated at the Beverly Hilton Hotel after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The African American Achievement Award is a prestigious recognition presented to individuals that have made significant contributions in their industry and made an impact in the community by improving the quality of life for youth and families through education, advocacy and community building.
“I am humbled and blessed to receive the Brotherhood Crusade 2022 African American Achievement Award,” said Betts. “It is an honor to be recognized by an organization that understands the importance of meeting the needs of our community directly, and I look forward to continuing our partnership to improve the lives of youth and communities of color.”
The commitment of Mookie Betts’ his foundation Acts Inspired by Mookie (AIM) to assist communities facing economic hardship and food insecurity made honoring him an easy decision for President and CEO of Brotherhood Crusade, Charisse Bremond-Weaver.
“The Brotherhood Crusade selected Mookie Betts because he embodies our organization’s values and believes in taking action to improve the quality of life for those in the community,” said Bremond-Weaver. “Mookie Betts is an exceptional athlete, husband and father, and has given back unconditionally to help those less fortunate overcome barriers that systemically hinder the progress of our community. Today, Brotherhood Crusade continues to do the same.”
The gala featured entertainment by three-time GRAMMY® award-winning R&B hitmaker, NE-YO, and speeches from elected officials Los Angeles Mayor-Elect Karen Bass and Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. Over one million dollars was raised to continue support and grow the many programs and services that Brotherhood Crusade provides for the youth of South Los Angeles.
“I’m not sure where I would be without the support of the Brotherhood Crusade,” said Dante Reese, a Brotherhood Crusade program participant. “The mentoring and guidance I’ve received from the youth development programs has helped equip me with the skills and confidence I need to succeed in school and life.”
Brotherhood Crusade acknowledges and thanks all the partners that made the 2022 Pioneer of African American Achievement Award Dinner a success. To learn more about Brotherhood Crusade, visit brotherhoodcrusade.org.
