Nipsey Hussle’s legacy lives on as his Neighborhood Nip Foundation has been announced as an official charity partner for the 2024 Los Angeles Marathon. The late rapper, who tragically passed away in 2019 at the age of 33, was not only known for his musical talent but also for his activism and dedication to uplifting his South Los Angeles community. The 39th Los Angeles Marathon is scheduled to take place on March 17, 2024.
Sam Asghedom, Hussle’s brother, expressed their honor and excitement to partner with the LA Marathon. He revealed that Nipsey had always spoken about his interest in being involved with the marathon and even wanted to run it himself. Asghedom shared, “He told us all to get ready and get in shape for it. That’s why it feels so good for this to be coming to fruition.”
As part of their involvement, Hussle’s clothing brand, The Marathon Clothing (TMC), will enter a team of 15 or more runners in the marathon. All funds raised by each runner will go towards supporting the Neighborhood Nip Foundation, which was established in 2019 to inspire underprivileged youth through various initiatives. Those interested in running in support of the foundation can register at themarathon2024.com, and the foundation plans to sponsor individuals who may not be able to afford the marathon fees.
Melissa Christian, the charity director for the Los Angeles Marathon, expressed her delight in welcoming the Neighborhood Nip Foundation as an official charity partner. She acknowledged Nipsey Hussle’s iconic legacy and stated, “The Los Angeles Marathon is so much more than just a race; it’s a platform to empower communities, and this partnership truly embodies that spirit, uniting our neighborhoods in a shared commitment to build a healthier world while celebrating Nipsey Hussle’s enduring legacy of resilience in the city he loved.”
The tragic death of Nipsey Hussle on March 31, 2019, outside his Marathon clothing store in South Los Angeles shook the community. He was remembered as a talented rapper, caring activist, and loving father at his public memorial service held at the Staples Center. His funeral became the first held at the concert arena since Michael Jackson’s in 2009. Despite his untimely passing, Hussle’s career reached new heights with his major-label debut album, “Victory Lap,” released in 2018, earning him his first-ever Grammy nomination. A year later, he posthumously won a pair of Grammys for the songs “Racks In the Middle” and “Higher,” his collaboration with DJ Khaled and John Legend.
The Neighborhood Nip Foundation is set to commence its programming in 2024 with the reconstruction of the Nipsey Hussle Plaza property, the original location of his Marathon store at 3420 W. Slauson Avenue. The renovated site will serve as a community center for elementary and high school students, focusing on academics and music. Asghedom emphasized Hussle’s “marathon” mentality and mindset, which fueled his ability to persevere against all odds and achieve greatness in every aspect of his life. He shared their pride in being part of the LA Marathon and quoted Hussle, saying, “Life is a marathon, run a lap.”
The LA Marathon, presented by Asics, is proud to have the Neighborhood Nip Foundation as an official charity partner. The team participating on behalf of the foundation is being sponsored by The Marathon Clothing, The Marathon Water, and Puma, further highlighting the support and commitment from various organizations in honoring Nipsey Hussle’s enduring impact on the local community.
In conclusion, Nipsey Hussle’s Neighborhood Nip Foundation’s partnership with the 2024 Los Angeles Marathon not only celebrates the late rapper’s legacy but also strives to uplift the community he loved. Through this collaboration, funds raised from the marathon runners will contribute to the foundation’s initiatives, including the reconstruction of the Nipsey Hussle Plaza as a community center for youth. The marathon’s commitment to empowering communities aligns with Hussle’s vision, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in building a healthier world.
