Romeo Davis — also known as “Mr. Romeo” — received a “You Make a Difference” award from students, co-workers and parents at a community chess and basketball game with 47th Precinct police officers on Thursday, June 20. More than 260 people attended the event.
Davis established the Young Kings and Queens Chess Club in 2017 to help Bronx youth “make better decisions” and “not give in to distractions,” according to the organization. For the past 20 years, however, Davis has taught chess and been a mentor to students.

“All my 20 years of mentoring and teaching chess, I’ve received a lot of thanks, but nothing like this,” Davis wrote in a press release.
The award recognizes Davis for his years of service to the Bronx community and dedication to mentoring Bronx youth.
“In grateful appreciation for going above and beyond,” the plaque reads. “You’re a ‘dad’ to those that have fathers but don’t have dads. You inspire me to always go the extra mile.”
“I don’t do this to get any accolades, I do this from my heart and because it’s the right thing to do,” Davis wrote.
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