Joe B. Avery Community Spirit Award Nomination

Joe B. Avery, a former member of the Arkansas City Human Relations Commission, passed away in 2008. In recognition of his dedication to the community, the Joe B. Avery Community Spirit Award was established in his honor. Joe was also the first recipient of the award that now bears his name.

Throughout his life, Joe was committed to creating and supporting resources that improved the quality of life for Arkansas City residents. His legacy lives on through this annual award, which honors individuals, groups, or organizations who embody his spirit of service, leadership, and community impact.

Nominate Someone Today

To nominate an individual, group, or organization for the 2025 Joe B. Avery Community Spirit Award, please download and complete the nomination form. Forms must be submitted by August 1, 2025.

Return completed forms to:
Community Spirit Award Committee
c/o Tiffany Parsons, City Clerk
City of Arkansas City
118 W. Central Ave.
Arkansas City, KS 67005
or email to tparsons@arkansascityks.gov

PAST RECIPIENTS

2009 — Joe B. Avery and Bruce Watson

2010 — Dr. Nick Rogers

2011 — Pastor James Watson Jr.

2012 — James Fry

2013 — Curtis Freeland

2014 — Delphia Jennings

2015 — Kerry Schnackenberg

2016 — Jim and Carol Owens

2017 — Carlla Pike, Kalin Taylor, and Rob Carroll’s Sandblasting & Painting

2018 — Christopher and Mitchell Gingher

2019 — Jill Hunter

2020 — Mike Evinger

2021 — Anita Judd-Jenkins and Foss Farrar

2022 — Rags Smith

2023 ­— Robin Henderson

2025 — Angels in the Attic and Tammy Lanman-Henderson.