Throughout February, at each home game, the Portland Trail Blazers will celebrate Black History Month by honoring members of our community who have inspired, sacrificed, set the bar, changed the world and gracefully led by example to make it better in our community. In observance of Black History Month 2010, we teamed-up with the Black Parent Initiative (BPI) and The Skanner Newsgroup to honor seven local African-American fathers. These fathers were selected based on their outstanding commitment to their families, contributions to their community and dedication to respectfully representing the best of our heritage. In the spirit of those who have come before us we honor these men who change the lives of those who are coming after us. Visit www.thebpi.org for more information about BPI and our programs.
Aubré Dickson – Dedicated to the lives of youth in his community, Aubré volunteers and serves on boards for organizations such as United Way with a personal goal to make it better for young people today. A husband and father of 3, he still finds time to mentor youth through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
Donald Dixon – A life long educator, Donald has been a constant presence in Portland Public Schools for over 30 years, taking on various rolls from teacher, to coach, counselor and even athletic director. Today, this father of two remains dedicated to today's youth as a guidance counselor and scholarship coordinator at Jefferson High School.
Eugene H. Golden – A Jefferson High School graduate, Eugene served two years with the United States Army before completing an apprenticeship with Portland General Electric where he became the first African-American lineman. As a faithful deacon at the Maranantha Church of God, Eugene works with the Junior High School Youth Ministry.
Chad Pasley – A husband, father, coach, volunteer and entrepreneur, Chad strives to show others that there is a way to balance work and family life while still making time for fun. Chad's heart for service is demonstrated through his volunteerism at church and his work with the Black Parent Initiative.
Dr. T. Allen Bethel – The recipient of many awards for his outstanding community, civic, government and private work Dr. T. Allen Bethel comes from a rich background including over 30 years in ministry and 28 years in pastoral ministry. He serves the Maranatha Church as Senior Pastor.
Kevin Carroll –Kevin came to Portland in 1997 after spending ten years in the Air Force as a language translator. Today he is an author, speaker and agent for social change and travels the globe as an advocate in the Sport for Social Change movement. In 2005 Kevin's message made it all the way to the United Nations where he addressed dignitaries from 31 nations.
Maurice Lucas –Maurice (or Coach too many) embodies a true All-Star on and off the court. Through his work with Legacy Emanuel Children's Hospital and CARES NW Child Abuse Program and his constant dedication to coaching those around him, Maurice is not just a father to three, but also a mentor to many.
