Bowling Green Honors Community Leaders for Black Story Month

News Summary

Bowling Green came alive to celebrate the 28th annual Black Story Month program, honoring community heroes for their impactful contributions. Attendees praised Shatavia Barber, Shanetti Jones, and Linda L. Hill alongside Jonesville Academy, recognizing their dedication to community advocacy, education, and youth empowerment. The event served to unite and inspire the vibrant community in Bowling Green.

Bowling Green Celebrates Community Leaders during Black Story Month

In the charming city of Bowling Green, a heartwarming event unfolded recently as the community came together to honor local heroes during the 28th annual Black Story Month program held at Next Level Church. This delightful gathering showcased the incredible contributions of three standout individuals and one outstanding organization that have made a splash in the Bowling Green-Warren County area.

A Night of Celebration

Organized by the esteemed Trailblazers Committee, comprising members from six wonderful traditionally Black churches in town, the evening was nothing short of a celebration of excellence and commitment. The participating churches included: Mount Zion Baptist, Taylor Chapel AME, Seventh Street Baptist, Eleventh Street Baptist, State Street Baptist, and, of course, Next Level Church.

The Bright Stars of the Evening

This year’s honorees represented an inspiring diverse group, showcasing leadership, advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to improving their community. Let’s take a closer look at these deserving recipients.

Shatavia Barber

Shatavia Barber, a remarkable young girl, became the youngest nominee at just 10 years old! Born with spina bifida, Shatavia embraces life in a wheelchair and advocates passionately for accessibility at city commission meetings, ensuring that parks and summer camps are accessible to everyone. With her amazing spirit and entrepreneurial spirit, she and her grandmother launched “Tay Tay’s Lemonade,” a fresh-squeeze lemonade stand that has become a community favorite since its opening last June.

Shanetti Jones

Next, we have the incredible Shanetti Jones, who was recognized for her unwavering dedication to community service. With fourteen years of experience in site-based decision-making councils at local schools, Shanetti has made meaningful contributions to education. Her role on the Warren County Equity Council shines as she focuses on closing achievement gaps in math and reading, particularly among minority students. Over the last four years, as a board member of Community Education Bowling Green Warren County, she advocates for essential before- and after-care programs in schools. Additionally, her recent membership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated adds yet another feather to her cap, connecting her further with impactful community efforts.

Linda L. Hill

Last but certainly not least, the spotlight shone brightly on Linda L. Hill, a talented figure in the performing arts. With over 35 years of involvement with the Fountain Square Players, she has taken on roles ranging from actress to publicity manager and even served as a board member. Linda made history as the first and only African-American member of the group. Her theatrical talents have also been showcased at the Public Theater of Kentucky, where she continues to inspire the next generation of performers.

A Youth-Centered Organization Making a Difference

In addition to honoring individuals, Jonesville Academy was celebrated as a remarkable organization dedicated to youth empowerment. This organization aims to close academic achievement gaps among Black and brown young men while fostering their self-confidence and leadership skills.

Community Pride Taking Center Stage

The Black Story Month program truly highlighted the importance of community advocacy and the vibrant arts scene in Bowling Green. The enthusiastic attendees expressed immense pride in the efforts being made to create positive change within their community. It’s events like these that serve as a beautiful reminder of the strength and talent thriving in Bowling Green and the countless ways individuals are coming together to uplift each other and build a better future.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear that the spirit of unity, pride, and unwavering determination will continue to propel Bowling Green toward an even brighter tomorrow.