Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. On Wednesday, February 15, 2023, the Atlanta community lost a bright light, an unstoppable, unforgettable force of nature. His work across many industries, through various organizations, with several civic coalitions, alongside HBCUs and Atlanta public schools, in partnerships with corporate foundations, and effectively working with elected officials at the city, state, and federal levels of government always included advocating for underserved communities, and especially for youth. As a member and former Chairman of 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc. and Chairman of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., Dortch was an active member for over 37 years.
Understanding the life-changing impact that mentors can have on a young person, Dortch worked to grow the organization by four times its size, expanding the mentoring movement beyond U.S. borders. Dortch’s leadership in multiplying mentors has been recognized by Presidents George H.W. Bush, William J. Clinton, and Barack H. Obama.
From leading grassroots voter registration efforts to campaigns for desegregating public schools, and always working for greater economic justice, Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. did not stop working to make a difference in the lives of others. In his later years, he wrote extensively on racial inequality and social change, shining a light on the inequities that vulnerable populations face daily. Dortch has constantly been in good trouble and his continuous unwavering efforts should inspire us all to continue to fight for underserved communities living with health disparities, education inequality, over policing, and more.
The arc of Dortch’s life has demonstrated that you can be successful in business and
continuously serve your community. You can educate and empower others and give voice to the voiceless by speaking truth to power, all while mentoring the next generation of leaders. Every area of his life that he dedicated to public service is important but mentoring youth was his passion. It comes across crystal clear in his book “The Miracles of Mentoring: How to Encourage and Lead Future Generations.” Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. was a changemaker and is a legend within the African American community.
Drafted with information provided by 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc., courtesy of Alex Ming of Seraphim Weath Advisors.
