In Memoriam: Clarence Brown
In 1991, Clarence Brown and Rev. Ron Nored stood on the stairs of Bethel A.M.E. Church and committed themselves to transforming the blighted Sandy Bottom neighborhood into a place where children could play in the streets, the elderly could sit on their porches, and families could live in a healthy, wholesome community. Their combined commitment resulted in the complete transformation of a once blighted community into one with a beautiful park, a community center, 36 brand new housing units and an active residential community.
Clarence Brown was the co-founder of BEAT and served as Board president from its inception until the death of Rev. Nored in 2003. At that point, Clarence left the board of directors and became BEAT's Executive Director in an attempt to salvage the organization from the devastating loss of its day-to-day shepherd and spiritual leader. Over the past three years, Clarence worked tirelessly to place BEAT back on the sound financial footing it enjoyed prior to Rev. Nored's death, in order continue with it mission.
Clarence died Thanksgiving Day, but not before he realized his dreams for BEAT. Just one day before his death, BEAT received final approval on a package that resolved all outstanding financial issues for BEAT, allowing the organization to pick up and continue its mission.
The best way we can honor both Clarence and Ron is to carry on their work to bring wholeness and vitality to the Ensley community. The commitments that Clarence secured before his death will make it possible for BEAT to continue the legacy.
We can now say with great confidence that in 2007 the following goals can be achieved:
- Construction of 10 housing units in the SandyVista neighborhood;
- Beautification of Avenue C in SandyVista, including new sidewalks, street lights, trees and landscaping;
- Reconstitution of the SandyVista Residents Association;
- Implementation of the BEAT Model in the Tuxedo neighborhood of Ensley, beginning a new chapter in the unfolding BEAT story and bringing new hope to hundreds of new families.
- BEAT has always relied on people like you, and we need you now more than ever. In order to achieve these goals in 2007, we need your help. We ask that you make a contribution to BEAT in honor of Clarence L. Brown. This gift can come in the form of a monetary contribution or through the volunteering of your time. Your contribution at this very crucial time will help ensure that his dreams will be fulfilled!
If you would like to find out about volunteer opportunities please email beat@beat-housing.com.