photo by steed media service

Recycling Black Dollars (RBD) founder Muhammad A. Nassardeen was a light of the community. The revered businessman, community leader and activist passed away from a sudden heart attack at age 54 on Thursday, October 11, 2007. He was one of California's premier proponents of minority business ownership and empowerment.

The Hon. Mervyn Dymally, chair of California's Legislative Black Caucus, shared his thoughts on Nassardeen's passing: "The State of California has suffered an incredible loss of Muhammad Nassardeen ... the chronicles of history shall portray Muhammad as a stalwart champion of political and business empowerment within the Los Angeles African American community."

Nassardeen's RBD hosted networking sessions designed to maximize opportunities for blacks to exchange business cards, names and other business information. "We like to keep models of possibilities in front of our young people, so they can see people who are doing things, who are making money, whom they can emulate or imitate," Nassardeen once said.

Nassardeen's hopeful vision for the future was evident in his dealings with the youth. For author Trizah Morris, whose young son was mentored by Nassardeen, the impact of his work touches her on a very personal level. "He taught me the power of spending with our own people," she says emotionally. "When I met him, I was actually coming out of being homeless for sixteen months. I had written a book and he put me in contact with people to help promote and publish the book. But I had no idea about business and commerce ... until he brought it to my attention."

Nassardeen is survived by his mother Amina Nassardeen, his wife Jennifer, four daughters: Alicia, Aysia, Kalita and Raven, and son Raheem. - todd williams

The home going celebration will be held:
Friday, October 19, 2007 at 11:00 a.m.
Crenshaw Christian Center ~ Faith Dome
7901 S. Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, Calif., 90000

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to:
Muhammad Nassardeen Memorial Fund
c/o Broadway Federal Bank
4800 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, Calif., 90010

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