Long Receives Optimist Award

A local civic organization presented an annual award to someone heavily involved in helping others.

Trey Long, founder of the 1 John 3:17, received the Meridian Downtown Optimist Club's Friend of Youth Award.

Long was presented a plaque and a check Tuesday for his efforts.

Long founded his charity three years ago and teamed up with the Wesley House to help the less fortunate in our area.

"I was in complete shock, and thanks to the Optimist Club," said Long. "I appreciate everybody that's helped make 1 John 3:17 successful. Thank you to the Wesley House that does the work on the front end to find out about the real needs in our community. And we just appreciate everyone that comes together and allows God to impact lives through people giving of their prayers and of their money."

Long says that every weekly need in the three-year history of the 1 John 3:17 program has been met.

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