Black History Month: Tony Black mentors youth across West Tennessee

JACKSON, Tenn. — “We are put on this earth to help others,” Tony Black said.

It’s that service mentality Jackson Executive Director of Recreation and Parks Tony Black lives by.

“It’s very important to give back because someone gave back to me. I think if we want to be successful, particularly in the African-American community, we stand on some broad shoulders,” Black said.

The long-time Jacksonian says he’s faced his challenges, but nothing stops him from helping others.

“I was raised in Lincoln Courts, and I found this community has a lot to offer in the way of employment and opportunity,” Black said.

Black attended Jackson Central-Merry High School and, later, Lane College. He was over T.R. White Sportsplex for years before stepping into his current position in 2006.

“I’m very involved in mentoring young people,” Black said.

It’s that passion Black says has given him the opportunity to travel across West Tennessee speaking to youth.

“Positive involvement and making good choices. Staying away from gangs and drugs and those type things,” Black said.

He even has a program where he hires youth as interns.

“I make it a point to hire as many young people as I possibly can in our summer program,” Black said.

He’s a founding member of the Court-Appointed Special Advocate Program and serves as the youth leader at his church. Black says he believes he’s been put in a position where he can give back.

“When you reach a certain point, you need to reach back and pull other people up with you,” Black said.