“Does Some Good Things…”- Derek Jeter’s Hometown Acquaintance Once Praised the MLB Legend’s Generosity and Humble Attitude

MLB legend Derek Jeter was more than an athlete during his playing days. Although he dedicated his entire career to the New York Yankees, the 5-time world champ was the people’s champion. Despite his retirement from the sport back in 2014, Jeter’s charismatic presence is still relevant.

And why not? Despite being incredibly successful, he is one of the very rare human beings who has remained close to his roots. Back in 2010, Jeter’s hometown acquaintance heaped praise on him for being too modest.

Derek, son of Sanderson Charles and Dorothy, was born in Pequannock Township, New Jersey. When Derek was only four years old, his family moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Therefore, Jeter grew up in Kalamazoo, where he spent most of his childhood. 

Thus, it was in Kalamazoo that Jeter began playing baseball in the little leagues. Visiting his grandparents back in New Jersey and watching MLB games with them set Jeter’s interest in baseball. Attending New York Yankees games and a fondness for Dave Winfield made Jeter want to be an MLB player. Jeter dreamt of becoming the Yankees’ shortstop and fulfilled his dream in 1995, but still always remained a humble personality.

The commendable personality of Derek Jeter 

Playing for the elite Yankees, Derek Jeter gained sporting stardom and earned a heavy fortune. Though he lived the life of royalty, he maintained a selfless and team-centric attitude even outside the ballpark. He donated a significant portion of his earnings to noble causes. Moreover, Jeter maintained touch with his hometown in Kalamazoo, despite having moved to luxurious confinements in New York.

In 1996, Jeter launched his charity organization Turn 2 Foundation. The organization strives for leadership, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles among youth. Apart from New York, the organization also helps children in Jeter’s native Michigan as well as in Tampa. Back in 2010, Jeter gave a surprise visit to 250 children at the Turn 2 Holiday party in December. 

Read More – “Always Been a Role Model”- Derek Jeter’s Efforts for Noble Cause Received High Words of Praise From Former New York Yankees Manager

Greg Ayers, the President of Discover Kalamazoo conventions and visitors bureau, spoke about Jeter in 2010, saying, “He sneaks into town, does some good things, then quietly leaves.” Jeter also dropped by to visit his alma mater, Kalamazoo Central High School, alongside his then-girlfriend, Minka Kelly. In fact, he even made a point to often drive by his modest split-level childhood residence.

Derek Jeter’s journey with the Turn 2 Foundation 

Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation completed 26 years and raised $2 million in funds this year. Speaking at the annual dinner celebration, Jeter said, “First of all, it’s hard to believe it’s been 26 years. That means I’m getting old. It’s very rewarding. Our foundation means so much to me and means so much to our entire family. When we set out 26 years ago, we never thought we would be where we are today. A lot of the credit goes to our supporters, our sponsors, and donors.” 

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So, what do you think of Derek Jeter’s personality? Do you believe he is the perfect role-model athlete to idolize? Let us know in the comments below!