We are pleased to highlight longstanding Manhattan Beach resident and Hill Section native, Kevin Brown, who is making his mark through honorable and innovative ways. Grateful to share with us about the twists and turns of his personal journey, Kevin’s story pays tribute to where it all began, in the Hill Section.

 

Growing up, Kevin was always a bright spot for others. Just ask Officer Hageman (former DARE Officer) or Dr. Christine Norvell (Kevin’s Principal at Pacific). Whether it was his wit to make you laugh, his crazy blue hair in 3rd grade, or his performance of Hotel California at the talent show, Kevin definitely left an impression. He stood out as a talented young man on the field and on the court. He could surf, skate and shred while you watched in awe. While at Costa, Kevin was acknowledged as one of the “most changed” students. On the surface, everything looked great for this 9th Street local. Underneath however, a different story was unraveling; Kevin was battling a growing addiction to drugs and alcohol.

 

As with many of the youth in MB, having access to enriching childhood experiences, beautiful beaches and a top-notch education proved to be no match for the underlying power of addiction. Early exposure and easy access had Kevin hooked by age 12. Partying every weekend in high school, the wild Mustang was in need of intervention. Kevin’s parents placed him in various programs but his condition did not improve. Increasing his use and losing control, Kevin was teetering on the edge, and unfortunately, entertaining jumping off from it. It would take a few more years and near-death experiences before Kevin would accept and come to terms with his situation. Finally, in 2003, after a series of car wrecks, health problems and encounters with the law, things slowly began to change.

 

Through the support of recovery programs, a sponsor, and his faith, Kevin was given a second chance. By better understanding the patterns of addiction and family dynamics, the dark cloud that plagued him for years was finally clearing. From there on, Kevin was determined to be a resource for others battling their own demons. His time and energy became focused on education, volunteering and being of service. He helped on the Every 15 Minutes program (a resource aimed at decreasing teen drunk driving at Mira Costa), and served alongside the Manhattan Beach Police Department as a Victim’s Assistance Counselor. Returning to school, he became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing mental health services within the community. Now as a School Social Worker for Centinela Valley Union High School District, his passion is helping teens put together the pieces of their lives.

 

Each day has it challenges, but Kevin wouldn’t have it any other way. Continuing to serve as a beacon in others’ lives, he was recently acknowledged for such dedication. Kevin was recognized as the School Social Worker of the Year for Los Angeles County. The award is given by the County Office of Education for those exhibiting an outstanding level of service and contribution to the field of education. The celebration was received graciously but it is by no means a time for Kevin to slow down. In addition to providing counseling services, he produces music and is an advisor for a Music Club on campus. He shared with us that “being a musician is one of my greatest gifts; it has allowed me to connect with people in ways that words can’t”.

 

With an immense amount of gratitude, Kevin knows that he would not be here today if it weren’t for certain people. Alongside his parents and siblings, individuals like Karen and Ken McKenzie, Pat Dietz, John Mellis and Rocky Wilson helped instill hope in his life during a time filled with such darkness. Today, his loving wife helps keep him in check while his three children remind him of God’s true blessings. And while Manhattan Beach may be where this journey started, Kevin knows his gifts and story must be shared outside of these city limits. To learn more about his current professional roles, please visit https://sites.google.com/cvuhsd.org/socialworkprogram or email him at brownk@cvuhsd.org. If interested in listening to some of the music he’s been making, check out his latest release “I’ve Seen us Better” under his artist name Welker Road (available on all the major platforms).

----

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, mental illness, or having thoughts of suicide, help is available. Please either call 988, visit https://www.samhsa.gov/ or speak with a medical professional. You are not alone.