Neuhaus Names Williams August Citizen of the Month

MIDDLETOWN – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has named Freddie Williams Jr. as August’s Citizen of the Month Award recipient.

Williams, 43, a lifelong Middletown resident, was recognized for his tireless work as a coach, mentor, volunteer, and businessman in the city that he proudly calls home.

“I admire how deeply Freddie cares about the residents of Middletown, especially young people who may need guidance or a role model,” Neuhaus said. “If there is an event taking place in Middletown, Freddie is likely an integral part of it, or attached to it in some way. He cares that much about the community and its residents. His hard work and generosity are appreciated by many and should be recognized.”

Williams, who owns 6 West Barbershop in Middletown, has been a barber for 24 years and has always used his shop to assist the community. His barbershop is a hub for multiple charitable programs, including clothing, toy, and back to school supply drives. Williams has also coordinated youth basketball trainings and leagues with the City of Middletown’s Parks and Recreation Department for more than 20 years.

He started the Department’s flag football program four years ago and provides free sports clinics and opportunities for children through his non-profit, Middletown Youth Sports.

Williams, who serves as Vice President on the Enlarged City School District of Middletown’s School Board is also a member of the High School’s mentorship program, My Brother’s Keeper.

Williams said his inspiration to give back to Middletown began as a child growing up in Middletown. He had two hard-working parents but saw that many of his peers did not have the same stability at home and did not have as many opportunities to participate in athletics and other activities.

“I have always been passionate about Middletown,” Williams said. “For me, being born and raised here puts gasoline in the tank, it keeps me motivated. I just want to help, and when I can it makes me feel amazing. I grew up with kids who did not have the means to go to basketball camps or on field trips. I felt bad for them and just want to make sure that all kids are looked out for and taken care of.”

Williams has two children, Dominique, 20, and Donovan, 11, and lives with his girlfriend, Sandra Arnez.

Neuhaus introduced his Citizen of the Month Award, which acknowledges outstanding Orange County residents, in January of 2017. To nominate someone for the Citizen of the Month Award, please email ceoffice@orangecountygov.com or mail a letter to “Citizen of the Month” at 255-275 Main Street Goshen, N.Y. 10924. Be sure to include the nominee’s name, hometown, a list of their accomplishments, why you are nominating them and any other pertinent information.