Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly McKinney.
Hi Kimberly, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always had a passion to help children and youth . And the need I witnessed went beyond my job of working with young people . I just decided that I would fill in the gaps and provide the services and events that I knew would have a greater impact on reducing risk factors . 36 years later I am still on the ground as a foot solider, What got me here is my commitment to the youth and the joy I receive when I see how simple things in life can be major games changers for how our youth view themselves . I strongly believe that I have been able to remain linked to the communities because I know how the continuim of services and care it vital to the success of the youth one is serving . In my world there is no end date , we are doing life together . I always tell my youth I am with them forever and as a result I have been on the lives of a great majority of my kids as I call them for over 12 years and counting .
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not , it has been an uphill battle , but one I will not run from . I think that sometimes organizations become so wrapped up in being successful that they forget the importance of collaboration and partnerships . I am a child / youth / family magnet and I take pride in the fact the families know that they can trust me and they appreciate my commitment to helping young people . If it were only that easy with organizations doing the same work .
Getting my name out there and getting sponsors to believe in my vision .
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a retired civil servant of 36 years where I helped underserved and at risk youth in Compton , Watts and Los Angeles . I loved my career and it was time to close the door . Another door opened within 30 days lucky me . My life shifted and I was able to continue and service the same communities I was previously working with . This new journey allowed me more creativity and flexibility to really create programs of purpose . I create safe spaces for youth to thrive and learn what their talents and purpose are . I am a motivator , a mentor , and known for bridging gaps and providing hope . I specialize in giving young people experiences in joy. To sum it up I specialize in investing in young people .
I am known for advocating, and supporting young people while they are in their journey of life . I am known for if you have a need ask Ms. Kim . I am known for being committed and passionate about helping child and youth .
I am most proud of is , I mentored a young man in Imperial Courts housing projects when he was 10 years old and I gave a Morehouse tshirt and I start telling him that was his College and how he would change lives with the knowledge he would gain by attending the college . Well seven years later he applied , was accepted we both screamed with so much joy . That young man is on the student body at Morehouse and he will graduate May 2026 . I have pictures of him on the tshirt . I believed in him and he believed in himself . In June of 2025 he lead a group of 100 black man that traveled to Los Angeles to share their Morehouse experience . I was present at the Jordan Watts event with 25 black young men from Locke High School . To see Marveon on stage speaking and encouraging others my heart with overflowing with pride and when he acknowledged that he would not be a Morehouse Man without my guidance the tears flowed .
What sets me apart from others I have so much experience with working with children and young people .. This is my passion project it is what I was created to do . As far back as I can remember even as a child I would pretend I was a teacher and help my neighborhood friends to read , I would set up arts and crafts outside for the neighborhood kids to enjoy . The commitment to serve is apart of my DNA , I was created to serve and I absolutely love helping my kids as I call them . Know matter how old they will always be my kids and they know Ms. Kim loves them and even if my program ended my commitment to them has no end date . We are lifer’s for real and they know that I really love them and want the best for them. If they need something and if I don’t have it they know I will find it . My commitment has never changed ….. when my office closed we meant in the parking lot , under a tree , by the bleachers .
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Never give up , if it is your heart’s work and you live to make a difference keep going stay focused . Remember it is not about you it’s about those whose life’s will be better because of your commitment .
I wish I knew the complexities of creating a community network that are sustainable. It is hard to get everyone to have the same metrics , same vision , people doing it for the right reason .
Contact Info:
- Email: Kimberly.a.mckinney@gmail.com
