EVANSTON, ILLINOIS - Family Focus Evanston will recognize City of Evanston Community Services Manager Kevin Brown with its Individual Who Made a Difference award at the organization's annual benefit on April 30.

As Community Services Manager for the City’s Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department, Brown promotes collaboration and partnerships between the City of Evanston, local businesses, and other entities to enhance youth and young adult development. Brown manages the Youth and Young Adult Division and the City outreach staff that engages at-risk youth in the community through job training and placement, alternative education programs, recreational activities and civic engagement projects.

Job training and employment programs established under Brown's leadership include the Skilled Trades Program, in partnership with Northwestern University; Building Career Pathways to Sustainable Employment Program, in partnership with the Youth Job Center of Evanston; Truck Driver Training and Certification Program, in partnership with Oakton Community College; and more. Hundreds of residents have obtained training and employment through these programs.

“I am honored and humbled to receive Family Focus Evanston's Individual Who Made a Difference award,” said Brown. “I share this award with the phenomenal Youth and Young Adult Division staff. They are an awesome group, and without them, there would be no recognition. I also thank Mayor Tisdahl, the Evanston City Council and the leadership team at the City of Evanston. I love this community and will continue to do everything in my power to serve the citizens well.”

Family Focus Evanston will celebrate 40 years of service on Saturday, April 30, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn, located at 1818 Maple Ave. in Evanston. Tickets are available online at family-focus.org/get-involved/attend-an-event or by calling Family Focus at 847-475-7570.