A Norwalk man who impacted many
underserved kids in the community has
died, but those who were close to him say his mission will go on.
“His love was tennis, and he knew that the vehicle of tennis
would hopefully make a change in the lives of the kids he would interact with,
and it is true,” says David Kimani, the senior director of tennis for Norwalk/Stamford
Grassroots Tennis & Education.
The free program started off as a summer camp and soon grew
to a year-round program that offered more than just tennis instruction.
“On top of it all is to build character, to help them with
their education, to help them with their life skills,” Kimani says.
Coworkers say Goldblatt touched the lives of
thousands of underserved youth over the years and helped them get through high
school and college.
“He does not seek out recognition or acknowledgement. The
only thing he wants is for the young people to have access to resources and
opportunities so they can be their best selves and they can live their best
lives,” says Betsy McNeil, the executive director of Norwalk/Stamford Grassroots
& Tennis Education.
Goldblatt also inspired the people he worked
with.
“I know that his spirit will live on here and not just live
on, it's the fuel that drives us forward and I think it always will be,” McNeil says.
Kimani adds,
“I've lost a friend, I've lost a mentor. But you
know, he has instilled a lot in us, and we'll continue and keep his vision and
his legacy going.”
Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling released a statement that said, “Art did so
much for our community and impacted countless lives. Grassroots Tennis helped
so many young people in Norwalk succeed and achieve their goals. I am deeply
saddened by his passing and send my thoughts and prayers to his family and
loved ones. It was a privilege to call him a friend.”
Goldblatt was 87 years old when
he died.