JOHNNY D. GENTRY, III

Chief Executive Officer | Community Works CDC

Johnny Douglas Gentry, III was born in Houston, Texas and raised in Central California. He endured a troubled youth involving gangs, drugs and crime. Johnny survived the California streets through athletics and a Christian upbringing. He was recruited by Santa Clara University in 1989 where he played college football. After a career-ending knee injury, Johnny spiraled downward and hit a personal rock bottom. This personal trial sparked a spiritual transformation that would prepare Johnny for a life of serving others. Johnny later accepted a calling to preach The Gospel, believing that the mistakes of his youth would one day serve as a testimony to help others. Johnny has over 20 years of social service and ministry experience through his work with organizations such as Change Happens, Star of Hope Men’s Development Center and Free Indeed Ministries which he founded in 2003. Johnny has experience in substance abuse counseling, housing for ex-offenders, at-risk youth intervention, juvenile offender mentor programming, workforce development training, and life management counseling.

Johnny is founder and CEO of Community Works CDC, a faith-based 501(c)(3) community development corporation committed to Youth Development, Workforce Development and Economic Redevelopment in Northeast Houston. He serves as the founding pastor of Freedom Church International, an inter-denominational spirit-filled church located in Northeast Houston. He oversees four congregations in Kenya, Africa. Johnny is Principal of Gentry Global Group LLC, a small business venture specializing in home renovations, new construction and helping others build wealth through real estate investing. Johnny is happily married to Jenice Gentry for over 25 years. Together they have accomplished their greatest achievement in life -  raising their four children. They most enjoy family time and serving their community together as a family.