Our Mission
"To whom much is given, much is required.”
Carrying Forward a Legacy of Service and Hope
The Gathering of Eagles Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to honor and extend the remarkable legacy of Dr. Melvin “Mel” Pender, Jr.—a Vietnam War veteran, Olympic gold medalist, and lifelong advocate for youth empowerment and national service.
In 1996, Dr. Pender launched the original Gathering of Eagles Foundation to raise funds for children battling heart disease. Through a series of successful charity golf tournaments, he mobilized critical support for the Cardiologist Association of Atlanta. His vision: to uplift lives through action, compassion, and community engagement.
Today, that same spirit of compassion and action endures. The Gathering of Eagles Foundation continues to evolve to meet the needs of a new generation. We are committed to building bridges between veterans, Olympians, educators, and underserved communities—empowering young people through literacy, athletics, leadership, and mentorship.
Our Mission
To empower and inspire 10,000 youth scholar athletes annually with the fundamentals of leadership, fostering a holistic approach to success while emphasizing academic excellence, active community engagement, and athletic achievement.
Core Programs
• Mind Over Medals Literacy Initiative
Promoting literacy and character development through book giveaways, author visits, and inspirational storytelling campaigns in Title I schools and underserved communities.
• Annual Scholarship Fund
Awarding scholarships to exceptional student-athletes who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to service.
• Youth Leadership & Mentorship Program
Developing young leaders through dynamic workshops, leadership academies, and one-on-one mentoring from retired military veterans, giving purpose-driven opportunities to those who have served.
• Legacy Events
Hosting dynamic gatherings that bring together Olympians, veterans, educators, and youth to preserve history, share stories, and inspire future generations.
Why Your Support Matters
Your early investment will provide essential seed funding to help us scale nationally, expand programming, and create a lasting foundation that champions Dr. Pender’s legacy of service, strength, and scholarship.
This is more than a charitable organization—it is a movement grounded in legacy, driven by purpose, and committed to transforming lives for decades to come.
Join Us
Together, we can:
• Build bridges across generations
• Empowering youth through literacy, mentorship, and leadership
• Ensure that Dr. Pender’s story continues to uplift and inspire
Let’s create a future worthy of the legacy we’ve inherited. Join us in carrying the torch
Your donations can be sent to:
Gathering of Eagles Foundation Inc.
2500 Dallas Highway SW
Ste 202-424
Marietta, GA 30064
CONTACT US
We are committed to our cause . If you are intrested in the work of Mel Pender or The Gathering of Eagles, fill our our form below and we will be in touch soon!
Atlanta, GA