The Better Boys Foundation has been in existence since 1961 working to provide safe programs and opportunities for Chicago’s youth from the North Lawndale neighborhood and other surrounding areas.
Being they do so much for African American youths in the Chicago area, it wasn’t a shock that Walter Payton agreed to make an appearance at their annual dinner in 1977, but it was a huge bonus that legendary boxer Muhammad Ali also agreed to support the foundation and attend the dinner.
The two met in the lobby of the Ambassador Hotel and exchanged a few friendly ‘jabs’ before heading in to the dinner.