SYNERGY - Juneteenth 2022

ART ALSTON Bloom Where You Are Planted

Story By: Alicia Jarrett

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Art Alston lived there until age sixteen. In his younger years, he had a difficult upbringing. He was raised in the projects by a single mother who had to work long hours to support him. He didn’t have many mentors, but the ones he did have taught him essential life skills and the value of healthy relationships.

Moving from the busy city of Pittsburgh to rural Tennessee was a culture shock leading to a tremendous growth opportunity for young Art. He learned and still applies a critical bible verse, “Bloom Where You Are Planted 1 Corinthians 7:20–24,”. He earned his undergraduate degree in Sociology and his Master’s in Criminal Justice Administration.

While working on his Master’s, he was a school guidance counselor in Nashville. There, he was able to give back to the youth and be a mentor to younger generations. One of his proudest moments was coming up with and orchestrating a fundraiser to raise money to take the kids to Washington DC. Art wanted to provide an inspiring trip that the kids would never forget, and he succeeded. Years later, some students tracked him down to thank him for that memorable experience.

After leaving the school, he continued to coach football for an additional 15 years. While coaching, he also incorporated life skills teaching; the importance of building relationships, teamwork, and learning respect for others and yourself. He now works with a major insurance company and has been with them for 22 years. His career has him travel regularly, and he is currently living and working in Gainesville.

Staying consistent and active he immediately found ways to be involved in his community and is active in church and is a member of 100 Black Men of Greater Gainesville. This organization strives to uplift and guide youngsters. One of their mottos is “What they see is what they’ll be.” Art is living by this motto as he shows passion and integrity in all that he does and wherever he is. He says, “It’s not just a job. It’s a lifestyle.” He also ensures to surround himself with positive and motivating people. Art has adopted a theory that if you keep the three P’s in mind, all will work out: “Be Prompt, Prepared, and Polite.”

Although Art does wear many hats, he says one of the best ways to manage work, home, and community is to be efficient with your time and not procrastinate. He does not watch TV; If he is not working or serving the community, he spends time with his family. No matter where life takes Art, he said he will remain true to himself and inspire those around him to be the best versions of themselves. One of the ways that God shows his love the most is through his people, and the relationships we cultivate are a way to spread that light, and Art’s light is shining bright.