Claude Cargill, born in New York City on February 5, 1915, departed this life in Harlem Hospital, New York City on April 18, 2002

The last of eight children, Claude was, wherever he lived, a true New Yorker who always came home... to Harlem.

With his ever-present tennis cap and the familiar bouncing-on-his-toes walk, Claude was a well-known figure in the Harlem Community, where he dedicated much of his life to working with young people on the basketball courts, the outdoor tennis courts, and in the 369th Regiment Armory.

His lifelong love of young people was exhibited early on when, as one of the earliest African-American New York City policemen, he organized and coached Police Athletic League basketball teams for girls, and track and field for girls and boys.

After leaving the Police Department and completing a stint as head of security for Supermarkets General, Claude became one of the principal owners of Bill's Indoor Tennis.

It was in this setting that the formal organization, now known as the Harlem Junior Tennis Program, expanded and provided not only tennis instruction, but also tutoring and academic counseling for college-bound students.

Claude spent most of his waking hours on the tennis court.

He privately supported youngsters by buying tennis equipment, paying tournament entry fees, providing room and board, and securing private coaches for talented players.

He chauffeured youngsters to tournaments, and parents knew their children would be safe and taken care of when they were with Claude.

Claude leaves a legacy of a life that demonstrated that a caring adult can make a difference in the lives of young people.