LaDarius Price, the Hamilton County deputy director for Community Development and dedicated community leader, received a state of Tennessee proclamation from District 28 Rep. Yusuf Hakeem last Sunday, Nov. 26. Price’s proclamation was presented at Pneuma Church, where he also serves as youth pastor.
The proclamation recognizes Price’s outstanding contributions, particularly his work in education, youth development and public health.
“Mr. Price epitomizes the spirit and commitment that are characteristic of a true Tennessean, and he should be specially recognized for his many contributions and devoted work,” Rep. Hakeem noted.
Price, a native of Chattanooga, has a long history of service to his community. He began his career as a preschool teacher in Nashville and later returned to Chattanooga to teach special education and coach basketball at his alma mater, Brainerd High School.
He has also served as Community Outreach Director for Cempa Community Care (formerly known as Chattanooga CARES), and is currently the president of Placing Emphasis Around Kids (PEAK), a nonprofit organization that provides mentorship and support to young people.
In addition to his work in education and youth development, Price has also been a vocal advocate for public health. He has led COVID-19 testing and vaccination efforts in the African American community and has spoken throughout the country about the need to address health disparities.
Price’s dedication to his community has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the 2019 Times Free Press Best of Preps Award, the 2019 City of Chattanooga Park and Rec Award and the 2022 Chattanooga Black Excellence Chris Ramsey Humanitarian Award, among others.
“I want to say thank you,” Price said. “Thank you to God, my parents, my family, my church family and my community. I truly appreciate Rep. Hakeem and the state for checking my work and saying we recognize what you’re doing for your community. The work never stops, but I thank God for calling me to it.”