PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Between a demanding full-time job — sometimes working 16-hour days — and a home life, life can get very hectic for Dave Brown, but it doesn’t stop him from devoting whatever time he has left to Philly’s youth.
Brown serves as commissioner and director for Region 58 CYO sports, a basketball program in Philadelphia. He’s been at it for over 30 years.
“I never had that opportunity, so I wanted to make sure that they had the opportunity to do it,” he said.
It’s a lot of work, but he said the reward is priceless.
“Being a commissioner or volunteer, there's no pay. But when you have a player that’s now an adult or someone that played in your league, I’ve had players come back … and they’ll thank you for that opportunity.”
Brown understands the role he serves in the lives of inner-city youth. He’s a role model — or as he likes to call himself, he’s a big brother.
“Inner-city kids get a bad rap, and when you can be a positive influence on their life, even through a sport, sometimes it goes beyond a sport.
“The disciplines you bring to your program are very important to help mold this upbringing.”
He says kids often feel more comfortable bringing up sensitive issues with him and other coaches than they would with their parents. Even though he’s not their parent, that respect is there.
Brown will soon have more time on his hands as he looks to retire in a few years. While he has a few more games in his legs, he knows it’s not about him. It’s about the lasting impression left on the kids he has coached.
“Just remember me as one that donated his time and gave them an avenue to provide them, hopefully, something that they thought that they would want to do themselves.”
During Black History Month, KYW Newsradio’s GameChangers honors individuals or organizations that have made a significant, positive impact in communities of color in the greater Philadelphia region. View the 2024 honorees here.