George DeGroat, Portsmouth’s Unsung Hero
Trying To Save A City
By TQ Bonner
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
George DeGroat’s journey from the tough streets of Portsmouth to becoming the city’s unsung hero is nothing short of extraordinary. Raised in the challenging environment of London Oaks, where gun violence and drug-related issues were commonplace, He faced the stark realities of his surroundings head-on.
The struggles to survive were a constant reminder of the destructive cycle that engulfed his community.
The turning point in George’s life came when the keen eye of David Chaney at the Mt. Hermon Recreation Center recognized the untapped potential within him.
George started honing his skills on the playground blacktops, just a kid having a good time playing the game he loved. But soon, his natural ability and developing court vision set him apart from the competition.
He had handles that couldn’t be stopped and a vertical leap to grab boards over more prominent defenders.
His playground mentality carried over to the hardwood, where he earned a fierce reputation for his lockdown perimeter defense - earning him the distinction of being one of the premier talents in the fiercely competitive city of Portsmouth.
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
Encouraged to channel his talent towards a college scholarship, he embraced the challenge with the same vigor he displayed on the basketball court. The transition from a carefree playground player to a disciplined and strategic athlete marked the beginning of his ascent in the sports world.
George’s skills and dedication earned him personal accolades and paved the way for his collegiate basketball career.
Yet, his basketball journey transcended individual success; it became a living testament to his unyielding commitment to uplifting others who faced similar struggles.
Beyond the dazzling crossovers and clutch shots, his impact on the court mirrored his dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him.
When his sister faced severe domestic abuse Issues, he stepped up to provide her and her young son a safe home. Though just finding his way as a young man, He took on the challenge of raising his 11-year-old nephew, who was on the verge of joining a local gang.
Guiding a child away from that fate would prove one of life’s most significant trials. But George was up to the task - he mentored his nephew And kept him from the streets.
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
George, already deeply involved in gang outreach for the City of Newport News, Virginia, decided to pioneer a unique program — the Exposure Challenge.
Though the city declined his funding request, he financed trips out of pocket.
He took four gang members to the Virginia Beach mall, a mundane outing for most youth but a revelation for kids who had rarely ventured beyond their streets.
They wandered wide-eyed among the shops, free of the burden of watching their backs for the first time. If only for an afternoon, they got to be kids.
More ambitious trips followed — an NFL football game in DC and visits to college campuses. The drive and traffic offered lessons for kids who had never left Newport News. Cooped up for hours In traffic, they talked of dreams beyond the gang path.
Three of the four teens have found a way out, crediting the Exposure Challenge for revealing life’s possibilities.
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
Tragically, the fourth, notorious as a shooter, returned to the streets. George wonders if things could have gone differently had he secured funding to continue the trips.
Still, he gave that young man a glimpse of an alternative. The chance was there; the choice was not his to make.
The trip destinations matter less than the conversations, relationship-building, and ideas planted. One of the three challenged youths who broke free now works for the Newport News shipyard.
The other two have built lives beyond gangs. George may not save everyone, but his impact endures.
As he tirelessly dedicated himself to serving at-risk youth in his city, George recognized a crucial reality — doors often open wider when accompanied by an impressive resume.
While some pursue degrees merely as credentials, He focused on the impact he could make. His pursuit was not about titles or boasting about having a master’s; it was about acquiring the accolades that could facilitate change and save lives.
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
Understanding the instrumental role of education in his mission, He embarked on a deliberate journey to maximize his knowledge, earning multiple degrees and master’s qualifications.
Despite receiving lucrative job offers, George turned them all down, unwavering in his singular focus: saving his city, Portsmouth, Virginia.
His ability to mentor, counsel, and relate to young people was evident before he accumulated degrees.
His work at the Newport News Detention Center earned him the moniker “Child Whisperer,” a testament to his remarkable talent for connecting with and guiding even the most challenging juveniles.
Transitioning to the Newport News Gang Prevention team, George continued to excel, propelled by a deep-seated desire to empower at-risk youth.
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
In George’s own words, he has emphasized that. “Degrees serve as tools to provide him with the credibility he believes he should have had already.
I appreciate the experience and having the privilege and honor to be taught by people like Dr. Daphne King, Program Director and term assistant professor at George Mason University.
She was hands down one of the most demanding instructors I’ve ever had. But you know what’s crazy? It worked for me. Her methods weren’t just about grades; they lit a fire under me. I realized she was molding not just students but professionals. That sense of commitment she instilled? Man, it stuck. It pushed me to strive for nothing less than perfection in everything I do. She’s the reason my drive and professionalism got a serious upgrade.
I give credit to Saint Augustine’s University, an HBCU. But one of the pivotal turning points for me was pursuing a master’s degree in Social Work at George Mason University.”
I asked George why keep doing this difficult work of saving young lives. He could choose an easier, high-paying job with his talents and donate money to the cause from afar.
He replied, “In my previous role, though comfortable, I felt powerless to spark change in my community, watching idly as violence claimed innocent youth. Making six figures mattered little to me when my purpose felt unfulfilled. The allure of material goods faded in my mind.”
He knew then that he must take an active stand. While the road is long and demanding, George channels his energy into uplifting his neighborhood’s youth, providing them hope and guidance to turn away from violence.
He is fueled by the belief that even one life transformed for the better is worth every ounce of effort. He understands true wealth means investing time and passion into what matters most. And for him, nothing matters more than helping young people rewrite their stories from tragedy to triumph.
To honor his late friend Edward Brown and continue his legacy, George DeGroat has founded a nonprofit to guide at-risk individuals down a better path.
The Edward Brown Foundation, named for his dear friend whose life was cut short by a car accident after transforming himself following a prison stint, was established to provide programs and resources to better the lives of people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Photo By Edward Brown Foundation
Speaking on the nonprofit’s grassroots start, DeGroat stated, “We worked the first year out of our own pockets,” demonstrating the deep personal dedication underpinning this endeavor.
Launching with minimal funding but abundant passion for the cause, The Edward Brown Foundation represents one man’s enduring tribute to a friend who found redemption before tragedy struck.
By helping at-risk youth and ex-convicts access support systems to facilitate personal growth and positive change, DeGroat and his fledgling organization hope to carry Edward Brown’s legacy and transform lives.
The Edward Brown Foundation seeks passionate individuals who want to make a difference.
Foundation Website/ Theedwardbrownfoundation.org
Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time, contributing donations, or sharing your creative ideas, the foundation welcomes your support in its mission to empower at-risk youth.
gdegroat@theedwardbrownfoundation.org
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I’m so proud of the man you have become, I’m sure your dad would be proud also. I love you, keep up the good work, may God bless and keep you
All Super Hero’s Don’t Wear Capes ❤️
Wow this is Awesome SuperHero,I’m sure this is your Heart desires ,I’m so PROUD of you, keep allowing GOD to direct your path. GOD is the only way to go call on his son Jesus for everything Amen, make sure he is a part of what you’re doing with those children and he will direct your path , serenity prayer is a very good prayer let them take turns reading somebody different every day and when they don’t wanna read it, you read . I love you and I am so proud of you and I’m proud of the young teenagers that want something out of Life this is epic God will move mountains for this foundation Amen I claim it, and I received it for my nephew and the teenagers in Jesus name Amen 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🌈❤️🔥⛪️💯