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By: John E. Groff, Jr – July 20, 2024 Few public servants have left a mark on the City of Flint quite like Councilman Eric Bradford Mays. To some, he was a fighter. To others, he was a firebrand. To the people of Flint’s First Ward, however, Eric Mays was something far more meaningful—an unwavering advocate who refused to be silenced when he believed the voices of everyday citizens were being ignored. For more than four decades, Eric Mays dedicated his life to public service and civic engagement. Long before he was elected to the Flint City Council, he attended public meetings, challenged elected officials, and stood beside residents who believed their government had forgotten them. His commitment to accountability, transparency, and justice became the defining characteristics of his public life. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Eric Mays graduated from Flint Northern High School before attending Michigan State University. He later worked for General Motors, where his involvement with organized labor helped shape the determination and resilience that would define his political career. Those who knew him understood that Eric was never afraid to ask difficult questions, challenge authority, or stand alone if he believed he was right. In 2013, Flint voters elected Eric Mays to represent the City’s First Ward on the Flint City Council. It was a position he would proudly hold until his passing in February 2024. Throughout his years in office, he remained committed to representing the people who elected him, often placing their interests above political convenience. He viewed his office not as a title, but as a responsibility to fight for those whose voices were too often overlooked. Perhaps no chapter of Eric Mays’ public service better illustrates his dedication than the Flint Water Crisis. When residents began reporting contaminated water, illnesses, skin rashes, and unsafe drinking conditions, Mays became one of the earliest elected officials to publicly question government assurances that everything was safe. While many continued to dismiss the concerns of Flint families, Eric Mays stood beside the residents, demanding answers and insisting that government officials be held accountable. His willingness to speak out helped draw national attention to one of the greatest public health failures in modern American history. History will forever remember Eric Mays as one of the local leaders who refused to allow the voices of Flint residents to be ignored. Eric Mays’ style of leadership was unmistakable. Council meetings often became spirited exchanges as he passionately defended his positions and challenged decisions he believed were not in the public’s best interest. His now-famous calls for “Point of Order!” became recognized around the country through countless viral videos shared across social media. While some viewed his style as controversial, others saw authenticity—a public servant who never allowed political pressure or public criticism to silence him. His supporters admired his courage, his persistence, and his refusal to compromise when he believed the people of Flint deserved better. Even many of his critics acknowledged that his passion for his community was genuine and that his commitment to his constituents never wavered. As his years on the City Council progressed, Eric Mays faced increasing political opposition. Disagreements with fellow council members often evolved into legal disputes concerning council procedures, disciplinary actions, and his ability to fully participate in the work of the Council. Through every challenge, he remained committed to representing the residents who had repeatedly entrusted him with their vote. He firmly believed that public service required standing on principle—even when standing alone. During those difficult years, Eric Mays developed a close relationship with his litigation team at Lento Law Group. His attorneys worked tirelessly to protect his legal rights, advocate on his behalf, and defend his ability to continue serving the citizens of Flint. Their representation extended far beyond the courtroom. The firm’s commitment to Eric remained steadfast until his final days and continued through his funeral, reflecting not only a professional relationship but a profound respect for the man they proudly represented. Those who knew Eric best often heard him speak about ensuring that his life’s work would continue long after he was gone. Friends, family members, and his attorneys shared his belief that the values he championed—service, accountability, courage, and advocacy for the people of Flint—should never end with his passing. It is in that spirit that the Eric B. Mays Foundation was established as a nonprofit organization recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation exists to preserve Eric Mays’ legacy by continuing the work that mattered most to him: serving the community, empowering young people, supporting senior citizens, promoting civic engagement, encouraging leadership, and advocating for those whose voices might otherwise go unheard. The Foundation stands as more than a memorial. It is a living commitment to the principles that Eric Mays embraced throughout his life. Every scholarship awarded, every family assisted, every community initiative undertaken, and every young leader inspired represents another chapter in the legacy he worked so hard to build. Eric B. Mays was never interested in being remembered simply as a politician. He wanted to be remembered as someone who fought for his city, who challenged the status quo, who demanded accountability, and who never stopped believing that the people of Flint deserved honest leadership. Today, that fight continues. Through the Eric B. Mays Foundation, his voice continues to inspire. His vision continues to guide. His commitment to the people of Flint continues to live on. Because legends never truly leave us—they live on through the lives they continue to change.

By: John E. Groff, Jr. August 10, 2024 The late Councilman Eric B. Mays dedicated his life to fighting for the people of Flint. Whether he was standing at the podium in City Hall, advocating for clean water, demanding accountability, or ensuring that the voices of ordinary residents were heard, Eric Mays never forgot who he represented. His legacy was never about politics—it was about people. Today, the Eric B. Mays Foundation proudly carries that mission forward. Our vision is simple but powerful: to improve the quality of life for Flint’s senior citizens, empower our youth through education and opportunity, strengthen families, and invest in neighborhoods that have too often been overlooked. The Foundation intends to become a lasting resource that provides hope, practical assistance, and opportunities for generations to come. Honoring Those Who Built Our Community Our senior citizens are the foundation upon which Flint was built. They raised families, worked in our factories, served our churches, volunteered in our neighborhoods, and helped create the city we know today. They deserve to age with dignity, security, and respect. The Eric B. Mays Foundation is committed to developing programs that assist seniors by providing: · Home maintenance and accessibility assistance. · Utility and emergency household assistance. · Food distribution and nutrition programs. · Transportation assistance for medical appointments and essential errands. · Technology education to help seniors stay connected with family and healthcare providers. · Social events designed to combat loneliness and isolation. · Resource navigation to connect seniors with local, state, and federal benefits. No senior should ever feel forgotten. We intend to ensure they know their community still values and supports them. Investing in Flint’s Future Through Education Eric Mays firmly believed that education changes lives. Every child deserves access to quality educational opportunities regardless of economic circumstances. The Foundation plans to support young people through: · Scholarships for college, trade schools, and vocational education. · School supply drives and backpack giveaways. · Reading and literacy initiatives. · Tutoring and mentoring programs. · Leadership development workshops. · STEM education opportunities. · Career exploration and internship partnerships. · College preparation and financial aid assistance. Education opens doors, and we want every Flint student to know that someone believes in their future. Creating Economic Opportunity A stronger community begins with economic empowerment. The Eric B. Mays Foundation intends to provide resources that help individuals and families become financially stable through workforce development, entrepreneurship, and financial education. Future initiatives may include: · Small business mentorship. · Job readiness and resume workshops. · Financial literacy classes. · Homeownership education. · Credit rebuilding resources. · Youth entrepreneurship programs. · Partnerships with local employers to create career opportunities. When residents have access to stable employment and financial education, neighborhoods become stronger, families become more secure, and communities thrive. Helping Families Meet Everyday Needs Many families face unexpected hardships that can quickly become overwhelming. Sometimes a helping hand at the right moment can prevent a temporary crisis from becoming a permanent setback. The Foundation plans to assist with essential household needs by providing support such as: · Emergency food assistance. · Household necessities. · Winter clothing and coats. · School clothing for children. · Holiday assistance programs. · Disaster relief for families facing emergencies. · Referrals to housing and community resources. · Partnerships with organizations providing health and wellness services. Our goal is not simply to provide assistance but to help families regain stability and move forward with confidence. Building Stronger Neighborhoods Eric Mays believed that strong neighborhoods create strong cities. The Foundation intends to partner with neighborhood organizations, churches, schools, businesses, and community leaders to sponsor: · Community clean-up events. · Neighborhood beautification projects. · Youth recreation activities. · Community health fairs. · Senior appreciation events. · Educational seminars. · Volunteer service projects. · Violence prevention and community engagement initiatives. Lasting change occurs when communities work together. Continuing a Legacy of Service The Eric B. Mays Foundation is more than a nonprofit organization, it is a promise to continue the work Eric Mays began decades ago. His passion for justice, his relentless advocacy for everyday citizens, and his unwavering commitment to Flint remain the guiding principles of everything we do. While Eric’s voice may no longer echo through the chambers of City Hall, his spirit lives on every time a senior receives help, a student earns a scholarship, a family overcomes hardship, or a neighborhood comes together to improve itself. The Foundation exists because one man believed every resident deserved someone willing to fight for them. That belief will continue to inspire our work for years to come. Together, we will honor Eric B. Mays not only by remembering his words, but by living out his commitment to service. We invite community members, businesses, churches, volunteers, and donors to join us as we build a brighter future for Flint—one family, one neighborhood, and one life at a time. Because when we invest in our seniors, empower our youth, strengthen our families, and create opportunities for economic growth, we do more than preserve Eric B. Mays’ legacy—we ensure it continues to change lives for generations to come. The Foundation’s published mission emphasizes empowering communities through education, support for seniors, and improving quality of life while honoring Councilman Eric B. Mays’ legacy