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WHEREAS, after matching with his own mentor in 1986, J.J. Richardson returned to the Big Brothers Big Sisters program years later to become a mentor himself and give back to the community; and,
WHEREAS, Mr. Richardson served as Chair of the Male Recruitment Advisory Board, and went on to serve as Vice President and President of the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters; and,
WHEREAS, through his participation in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, Mr. Richardson transformed the life of his Little Brother, Jayon, by offering academic and personal support; and,
WHEREAS, his mentoring relationship with Jayon included going to his sporting events, exercising together, celebrating birthdays together, and accompanying him to college interviews; and,
WHEREAS, through the help of Mr. Richardson, Jayon was able to improve his academic performance, develop conflict resolution skills, and become a respected leader on his football team; and,
WHEREAS, Jayon recently accepted a full football scholarship to Lake Erie College and graduated from high school with good grades, fulfilling two of his major goals; and,
WHEREAS, this mentorship developed into a meaningful familial relationship, with Jayon and Mr. Richardson relating to one another as true brothers; and,
WHEREAS, Mr. Richardson is a model of the Big Brothers Big Sisters vision, exemplifying the values of patience, support, and positive outcomes for children; and,
WHEREAS, every child deserves to feel safe, cared for, and respected, and should be given ample opportunities to enjoy life and realize their potential; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby celebrate the significant impact of Mr. J.J. Richardson’s involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, July 16th, 2019 to be “J.J. Richardson Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.