Artis Humbled by Recognition of Civic Group

Reverend Jerry Artis has been a Huntington resident for more than a decade and during those years he’s dedicated much time and energy to helping those in need.

One of seven individuals to be honored by the Greater Huntington Civic group next month, Artis will be recognized for his charitable contributions to the community which are making a difference in the lives of many — including his wife.

“He never does anything with the intention of how it’s going to make him look,” said Glorius Artis. “I am absolutely thrilled." 

Through the Huntington Organizations People and Places of Excellence Awards, the GHCV will highlight people like Artis who have helped to attract positive attention to the community by working to make things better, according to Susan Nielsen of the GHCG.

A champion for the development of youth programs, the pastor said he was "humbled" to be honored for his work.

Last  summer, Artis began a basketball program to provide extra-curricular activities for teens in need. Starting the program with 25 kids , Artis said he's now looking to recruit more teens, ages 13 to 18, in the coming months.

“I believe that if young people had different positive alternatives then being in the streets and risking their lives, then they would,” said Artis.

Nielsen prasied Artis for reaching out to risk children. “If you have diversion programs for the youth — like the one he’s trying to establish — it helps keep the kids in involved."

As founder of Love of Christ Fellowship Church, Artis said he has accomplished his main goal, which is to see the kids he’s helped graduate high school and succeed in life.

“One of the girls is getting her PhD in psychology,” Artis said proudly. 

: Jim Polansky, Juli Coraor, Marta Smith, Alfred Sforza, Megan Hansen and Josh Solomowitz. 

Individual ticket sales for the April 21 Huntington Crescent Club event are available.