The City of Longview Partners in Prevention’s Unity and Diversity Committee announces Ms. NaTusha Howard and Mr. Jerry Gardner as the 2022 Unity Honors recipients. The Unity Honors is a lifetime achievement award that recognizes residents who have demonstrated leadership in promoting unity, mutual understanding, and social justice.
Special recognition awards will be presented to Eastman Chemical Company and the Rotary Club of Longview. Eastman is a corporate leader in promoting inclusion and diversity in the workplace, as demonstrated through the Employee Resource Groups. The Rotary Club of Longview for helping to provide food through regular food distribution, implementing the Backpack program for students, and providing scholarships to high school seniors.
NaTusha Howard serves professionally and through volunteer service to build relationships across race and class lines. Currently, NaTusha serves as the director of Newgate Mission. She demonstrates love and kindness for all who enter the doors of Newgate and respectfully refers to those seeking assistance as “patrons.” She gives her time as a dedicated member of her church, and assists young people in pursuing their goals through creative expression.
Jerry Gardner initiated the Angel Tree Program at Haverty’s Furniture Store approximately 30 years ago, which has grown and continues today. Jerry is a longtime volunteer, board member, and previous Board President of the Newgate Mission, giving his time to anyone in need through this mission. Thousands of children have received gifts because of Jerry’s heart to serve others.
The Unity and Diversity Committee will honor the two recipients at the 18th Annual Unity Honors Luncheon. The luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, at the Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
Tickets for the luncheon are $20 and are available online LongviewTexas.gov/Unity Honors or at any of three locations — Broughton Recreation Center, 801 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.; Longview Public Library, 222 W. Cotton St.; or Partners in Prevention, fourth floor of the Glover-Crim Building, 140 E. Tyler St.
Tickets must be purchased by Feb. 4, 2022, as tickets will not be available at the luncheon. Sponsorships are available. For more information, please call Partners in Prevention at 903-237-1019.