Building a Stronger Flint: The Eric B. Mays Foundation’s Commitment to Seniors, Youth, and Families

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