The Board of Directors and committee members of the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation congratulate their founder, Aaron Judge, as the recipient of the 2023 Roberto Clemente Award. The award is bestowed annually to the player who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions, both on and off the field. Aaron was recognized and received the award at Game 3 of the 2023 World Series on October 30, 2023.
The Mission of the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation is to inspire children and youth to become responsible citizens by engaging and encouraging them to reach unlimited possibilities. Aaron’s vision, goals, values, and mission for ALL RISE are aligned with Clemente’s achievements and character that inspired the creation of the Roberto Clemente Award.
When asked about receiving the Roberto Clemente Award, Aaron said, “As a player, Roberto Clemente had 3,000 hits, he hit home runs, was a great defender and a complete player. He is someone I try to model my game after. Then, off the field, he had so much compassion and care for every individual. It didn’t matter who you were. You could be the youngest fan, an older fan, or even someone who wasn’t a fan of baseball, and he took time out of his day to make you feel special. The charity work he did, how he touched every single fan, especially the young kids, that’s who you want to be. That’s a big leaguer, that’s a professional. Receiving this award and getting the opportunity to represent Roberto Clemente is one of the greatest honors.”
Prior to Aaron becoming a pro, he began dreaming about starting a foundation. His dream became a reality in 2018, when he established the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation. He set in motion the opportunity to make a difference in the communities that are near and dear to his heart, specifically San Joaquin County and Fresno County in California, and the Bronx in New York.
Through the Aspiring Leadership programs, Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation Baseball ProCamps, Mini-Grants, scholarships, and collaborations with organizations that share his vision, Aaron’s goals and commitment to lead ALL RISE continue to grow. Not only has ALL RISE provided thousands of children with the opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired, ALL RISE has also encouraged adults to meaningfully engage with and impact the children in their communities.
“The legacy of pro athletes, such as Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente - a leader who had a great impact and left a significant legacy to be admired both on and off the field, encourages us to continue to work towards Aaron’s goals for ALL RISE,” states Patty Judge, President of ALL RISE. “Roberto’s legacy provides a path for us as an organization to emulate and learn from as we continue to grow. We are committed to being led by Roberto Clemente's example as Aaron continues to live the ALL RISE mission. We are proud of Aaron as the recipient of this prestigious award.”