Black Men of Greater Springfield finds novel way to honor one of group’s founders

SPRINGFIELD — The group Black Men of Greater Springfield held its annual Unity Grant Award presentation Friday evening and selected Mattie Jenkins as the first recipient of the Art Jones Community Service Award.

“Art Jones was one of the founders of Black Men of Greater Springfield 30 years ago,” said My-Ron Hatchett, the group’s vice president and chairman of Friday’s event. “He passed away last year. He was on the forefront of youth development in Springfield, coached youth basketball and was active with the Boys Club.”