Charles “Charlie” Hendricks was a man who gave his life in many ways; from his birth on September 1, 1929 to his death on May 5, 1991.

As a life-long resident of West Philadelphia, Charlie began his community activities as a scout leader, coach of the Top Cats Little League Baseball Team, Education Chairman of the Heston Home and School Association and the Conestoga Community Betterment League.

He always dedicated himself to making a difference:

As a charter member and Treasurer of the Valiants, one of the founding organizations of the IABPFF, during his 31 years as a firefighter, he was instrumental in legally challenging the City of Philadelphia regarding its lack of African-American firefighters in the Philadelphia Fire Department.

As a founding member, past treasurer for 10 years, and president for 4 years, of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters., Charlie’s  travels throughout the United States initiating the organization of new and recruitment of existing firefighter associations as members of the IABPFF, extended his personal and professional family even more.

As a member of the National Professional Qualifications Board for the Fire Service, he demanded fair and bias-free selection procedures for all firefighters.

As a Board Chairman of Concerned Black Men, Charlie continued to fulfill his desire to assist our youth.  He invested his time, money and love, creating for them a positive male presence.

Using his leadership, financial skills and determination, as Chairman of the Trustees of Simpson-Fletcher United Methodist Church and as Chair of the Board of Simpson-Fletcher Conestoga Community Corporation, Charlie oversaw the development and construction of the Simpson-Fletcher Conestoga House, a senior citizens residence in West Philadelphia.in 1983.

Charlie was a leader who rose out of his people, but never above them. 

His legacy was honored with the unveiling of a bronze bust likeness by sculptor, Tina Allen at the Philadelphia African American Historical and Cultural Museum in 1993.  Its existence is due to the financial support of the IABPFF, Concerned Black Men and Simpson-Fletcher Conestoga Community Corporation.  David Floyd, president of the Charles Hendricks Memorial Committee and the first president and co-founder of the IABPFF spearheaded this effort. 

He was survived by his wife, Ethel L. Hendricks, his daughter Gerri Hendricks Walker and his son, the late Leroy Philip Hendricks.