Larry Simmons: A life dedicated to service, empowerment

Editor’s Note: Larry Simmons will have the opportunity to contribute regular articles to The Albany Herald on his work in the region. Comments or suggestions are encouraged and may be sent to [email protected] or to [email protected].

ALBANY — I am honored to introduce myself to the Good Life City of Albany and southwest Georgia. My name is Larry Simmons Sr., and I come to you as a semi-retired social worker with 21 years of experience, a passionate advocate for youths and community development, and a military veteran dedicated to service. My journey, shaped by challenges and triumphs, has instilled in me a fervent desire to uplift children and youths, strengthen families, and foster a more unified community.

Born in 1957 during the height of the Jim Crow era in Pensacola, Fla., my early life was marked by racism, discrimination and trauma. These experiences left me feeling defeated, and for a time, I walked a dark and tumultuous path. However, my story did not end there. Guided by faith and an unyielding belief in redemption, I found the strength to turn my life around. As Matthew 11:28 reminds us: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

At the age of 41, with a high school GPA of 1.9 and significant self-doubt, I took a leap of faith and enrolled at Pensacola Junior College. Initially timid and uncertain, I thrived through determination and hard work. At PJC, I earned multiple honors, including the Minority Leadership Award, became a student ambassador, and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the prestigious international honor society. These accomplishments reignited my confidence and set the stage for my next chapter at the University of West Florida.

At UWF, I continued to excel, becoming the first African American elected president of the Student Social Work Organization and earning recognition as the National Association of Social Workers Student of the Year for Northwest Florida. I also joined the Social Work Honor Society, underscoring my passion for community engagement and academic success. Graduating in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a certification in family services, I embraced Luke 12:48: “To whom much is given, much is required,” committing myself to professional service wherever I lived.

Beyond academics, my purpose became clear through my work with young people, especially those facing challenges similar to my own. Over the past 35 years, while working full-time as a social worker, I have volunteered to coach and establish youth programs that provide structure, mentorship, and a sense of belonging for children in our community.

I began coaching youth basketball in my old neighborhood after high school. During my college years and beyond, I expanded into tackle and flag football programs, teaching young boys discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills. Recognizing the need to engage girls, I started cheerleading programs, giving young girls a platform to build confidence, showcase their talents, and feel included in community sports.

My dedication to service also extends to my military career. I proudly served nearly six years in the Florida Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Sergeant E5. As a multi-channel communication equipment operator, I developed discipline, leadership, and teamwork — qualities that have shaped every aspect of my life. One of my most cherished awards is the Florida Commendation Medal of Achievement, issued by the governor of Florida for my service during a major hurricane. Today, I continue to honor my military service as a member of American Legion Post 512 in Albany, where I serve on the executive board, advocating for veterans and contributing to the community.

A defining moment in my life was visiting the White House on two occasions. The first was as a guest of a former U.S. Representative from Florida’s 2nd Congressional District at a Congressional Black Tie Holiday Social. The second was as a lobbyist during the 2010 Veterans Lobby Day. Collaborating with human rights organizations, I advocated for issues impacting veterans.

As I reflect on my journey, I recognize it has been filled with challenges and triumphs, growth and setbacks. Yet, through it all, I remain steadfast in my belief that “to whom much is given, much is required.” In recent years, I have begun chronicling my story under the working title “From the Dirt Roads of Pensacola’s Tanyard to the White House: The Journey Continues.” My hope is that my story can encourage someone else who has given up hope.

Right now, Albany is where I see great needs and opportunities. Two years ago, I began my journey here by completing the city of Albany Police Department’s Citizens Academy, Government 101, and joining the Albany Chamber of Commerce. Recently, I was selected to participate in the chamber’s Political Leadership Institute. This program is providing me with opportunities to network, learn the inner workings of city government, and explore ways to serve. My work as a program coordinator for the SOWEGA Rising Election Protection & Safety Task Force and as a nonpartisan canvasser in Dougherty County and surrounding areas has been eye-opening.

Disturbed by troubling statistics in Dougherty County and southwest Georgia, I reached out to Dr. Jerry Daniels, chair of the Social Work Department at Albany State University. Together, we agreed that addressing systemic issues such as broken families, poverty, gangs, violence, and academic stagnation requires unity and collaboration. Only by working together, pooling our talents, and committing to a shared vision of a stronger, more prosperous community can we bring about meaningful change.

Thank you for welcoming me into your community. I am ready to serve, listen, and work alongside you for a brighter future.