Doc Eldridge Wins Milner S. Ball Social Justice Award

Doc Eldridge has been named the 2013 winner of the Milner S. Ball Social Justice Award. This year’s ceremony will be on September 24th in the Grand Hall of UGA’s Tate Center. Here’s the text of a letter he sent to encourage people to donate to the Athens Justice Project, which gives out the award:

"For the last 15 years the Athens Justice Project has worked tirelessly to help people in our community break the cycle of crime, substance abuse, and poverty by providing legal representation, counseling, and employment enhancement opportunities.

Each year at their Annual Luncheon they announce the recipient of the Milner S. Ball Social Justice Award. Milner was a co-founder of the AJP and was dedicated to the practice of public interest law. The award recognizes people for their efforts in advocating for those in recovery from substance abuse and/or those who have criminal backgrounds as they strive to rebuild their lives.

People recognized in the past with this award include former Georgia Labor Commissioner Mike Thurmond, Stephen Bright, Dr. Louise McBee, Governor Roy Barnes, Emmet Bondurant II, Milner Ball, Paul Kurtz, and Judge Kent Lawrence.

I am deeply honored to have been selected as this year's recipient of the award. Most of you will understand when I tell you that receiving this award has a special, personal meaning to me in many different ways.  My hope is that by receiving this award it will, in some way, do something to help someone living in recovery and trying to get back on their feet to become a productive member of their family and our community. It is the least that I can do.

This, of course, is a fundraiser for the Athens Justice Project. Their very existence is made possible by contributions from individuals and the private sector. 

I hope that you will consider participating this year by purchasing a table or tickets at the least. This is not about me. It is about helping the people that are helping others. Your help is critical. If you are unable to attend the luncheon, perhaps you will consider making a donation. 

For more information on the luncheon or information on making a contribution and reservations, please either call Jenni Olsen at 706-255-3047 or email her."