ATLANTA -- Extending Hank Aaron’s lifelong passion to expand diversity in baseball, the Braves have honored his memory by developing the Henry Louis Aaron Fund.  

The Braves seeded this fund with $1 million. MLB and the MLB Players Association have also donated $500,000 each.

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“We want to continue Hank’s amazing work in growing diversity within baseball now and in the years to come,” Braves chairman Terry McGuirk said. “I believe this seed money is just the beginning for this growing fund and I’m certain other companies and organizations who have worked with Hank over the years will join us and add to this call to action to develop talent and increase the diversity on the field and in the front offices across the league.”

Aaron’s life and memory have been celebrated by countless friends, fans and family members since he passed away at his Atlanta home on Friday. He has long championed efforts to increase diversity on the field and in front offices.

“Henry Aaron was a Hall of Fame player, a front office executive, a mentor, a colleague and a friend,” Commissioner Rob Manfred said. “In each of these roles, he was a tireless advocate for better representation of people of color throughout our sport. As a philanthropist and businessman, this celebrated power hitter was most passionate about empowering others. We are proud to honor his legacy through this joint donation to the Henry Louis Aaron Fund, and commit ourselves to continue building toward greater diversity and representation in the game Hank loved dearly.”

The Braves plan to use the fund to drive equity by creating access and opportunities in the areas of sports, business, education and social and racial equality.

“Hank Aaron was a pioneer for social justice, civil rights and the fight against racism who knew firsthand the importance of ensuring the game he loved was accessible to all,” said Tony Clark, executive director of the MLBPA. “We share Hank’s values and commitment.”