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Proclamation honoring the life, memory and legacy of Dr. James H. McLemore.
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WHEREAS, Allegheny County Council does hereby honor the life of the late Dr. James H. McLemore, a dedicated humanitarian and philanthropist who passed away on June 5, 2020 at the age of 74; and
WHEREAS, Dr. McLemore came to Pittsburgh in 1996 to pastor the Hill District’s historic Mother Bethel AME Church; and
WHEREAS, during his services, Dr. McLemore had contagious energy that was able to entice his congregation to act in love, faith, and hard work; and
WHEREAS, passionate about stabilizing and strengthening particularly African American families headed by single women in the greater Pittsburgh area, Dr. McLemore founded Small Seeds Development, Inc. (Small Seed) in order to help support, strengthen and sustain families to build strong and safe communities; and
WHEREAS, adapting the program model for Mother to Son, which he had operated in Ohio, Dr. McLemore worked closely with members of Bethel AME Church and more than 40 organizations that provided community-based services to start Small Seed.; and
WHEREAS, Dr. McLemore and several dedicated volunteers worked to grow Small Seed Development, Inc., which now offers several programs such as, Mother to Son, Father to Son, and Summer Success Camp; and
WHEREAS, due to Dr. McLemore’s immense devotion to providing services to those in need, Small Seeds Development, Inc. grew in number and size. The provided services expanded to several churches, housing projects, and community centers; and
WHEREAS, the demand for Small Seeds’ programs and services reached new heights, and its infrastructure grew to include a diverse and professional staff. All of which never would have been possible if not for the love, faith, and hard work of Dr. McLemore;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Allegheny County Council DeWitt Walton do hereby honor the life, memory and legacy of Dr. James H. McLemore and I extend condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.