Brotherhood & Homebuilding: A Story
- Cliff Palmer, standing on Atlanta's west side, shared a childhood memory of the city taking his grandmother's house.
- When Palmer learned that civil rights icon Mabel "able Mabel" Thomas was living in a one-room efficiency due to her home's condition, he knew he had to act.
- Hazelton emphasized the importance of supporting those who share the same values.
In Atlanta, three men—Cliff Palmer, Michael Sterling, and Randy Hazelton—embarked on a mission: restore the home of civil rights icon Mabel Thomas. This powerful story highlights brotherhood and the strength of community. Their commitment, fueled by personal experience and a shared vision, transformed Thomas’s dilapidated house into a renewed space of dignity. The project, completed in just 60 days with community support, is a testament to collective action. News Directory 3 proudly presents this inspiring tale of service and remembrance. Discover how this renovation revitalized not just a home, but also a legacy of unwavering dedication and the power of supporting elders in need. Discover what’s next.
atlanta Men Restore Home for Civil Rights Icon Mabel Thomas
Updated June 13, 2025
Cliff Palmer, standing on Atlanta’s west side, shared a childhood memory of the city taking his grandmother’s house. He vowed to get her another one, a promise he couldn’t fulfill in time.This personal experience fueled his determination to help others.
When Palmer learned that civil rights icon Mabel “able Mabel” Thomas was living in a one-room efficiency due to her home’s condition, he knew he had to act. He enlisted the help of Randy Hazelton and Michael Sterling.
Hazelton and Sterling immediately agreed to help. Hazelton emphasized the importance of supporting those who share the same values. Sterling noted Palmer’s rare requests for assistance, usually focused on helping others.
The project began after Palmer learned about Thomas’s situation from friends. He contacted Hazelton and sterling, and they started the renovation without delay.
Palmer, Hazelton, and Sterling began the work themselves, knocking down walls with sledgehammers. They quickly obtained permits and hired contractors to complete the renovation within 60 days.
Sterling, despite personal projects, felt compelled to help. The team transformed Thomas’s uninhabitable house into a home worthy of her legacy.
The renovated home is located in Vine City, a historic Atlanta neighborhood.The project serves as a blueprint for community support and elder care.
thomas expressed her gratitude to Palmer, Sterling, and Hazelton, acknowledging the project as “God-driven.” She highlighted the rarity of three Black men uniting to honor an elder.
The renovation was about restoring dignity to Thomas, who dedicated her life to serving others. The project was completed in 60 days, showcasing the power of community support.
Atlanta Mayor andre Dickens praised the project as an example of visionary leadership and a reminder of shared humanity. He emphasized the importance of collective action in solving community problems.
For Palmer, the project was about fulfilling a promise and finding redemption. He stressed the importance of honoring and caring for seniors.
The renovated house symbolizes brotherhood and community,serving as a blueprint for remembering elders,reclaiming legacy,and restoring what truly matters.
(L-R) Cliff Palmer,Michael Sterling and Randy Hazleton stand behind Ms. Mabel Thomas.Image: Darnell Wilburn
“So if Cliff is calling you—98% of the time, it’s for somebody else.”
What’s next
The success of this project inspires hope for similar initiatives in other cities, fostering a culture of elder care and community support. The blueprint created by Palmer, Hazelton, and Sterling can be replicated to address housing needs and honor community leaders.