George Esser facts for kids

George Hyndman Esser Jr. (born around 1921 in Norton, Virginia – died November 5, 2006, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina) was an American civil rights advocate. He worked to make sure all people had fair and equal rights. In the 1960s, he led an important group called the North Carolina Fund. He was asked to do this by the state's leader at the time, Terry Sanford.

George Esser's Work

George Esser dedicated his life to helping communities and making government work better for everyone. He played a big part in improving life for many people in North Carolina and beyond.

Starting His Career

After finishing law school, George Esser joined the Institute of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This institute is a place where people study how government works and how to make it more helpful for citizens.

Leading the North Carolina Fund

In 1963, Governor Terry Sanford asked George Esser to lead the North Carolina Fund. This special organization worked for five years to create "community action agencies" all over the state. These agencies were local groups that helped people in their neighborhoods, especially those who needed extra support.

What Was the North Carolina Fund?

The North Carolina Fund was a groundbreaking program. It aimed to fight poverty and inequality in North Carolina. Under Esser's leadership, it helped communities set up their own programs to improve education, job training, and living conditions. It was one of the first programs of its kind in the United States.

Helping Others Succeed

George Esser also brought Nathan T. Garrett to work at the North Carolina Fund. Nathan T. Garrett later went on to create his own organization, the Foundation for Community Development, which continued to help communities grow.

Later Contributions

After his time with the North Carolina Fund, George Esser continued his work in public service. He became an adviser for the Ford Foundation, which is a large organization that gives money to help solve problems around the world. He also served as the executive director of the Southern Regional Council in Atlanta. This group worked for civil rights and fairness in the southern United States. Later, he led the National Academy of Public Administration in Washington, D.C., which helps make government more effective.

Awards and Recognition

In 1995, George Esser received the North Carolina Philanthropy Award. This award honored him for his many years of giving his time and effort to help others and improve society.