From Black Scholars to Building Community Through Public Service
Kayla Brooks ‘23, a proud CSULB alumna and former member of the Black Scholars team, is a shining example of how education, opportunity and community service intersect to create a lasting impact. As a recent fellow in the Long Beach Public Service Corps (LBPSC), Kayla has transformed her drive for service and equity into tangible change for the youth and underserved populations of Long Beach.
As Kayla reflects her time in the program, she describes it as a “pretty good experience,” filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and give back. “It’s very beneficial if you're trying to work in the local government,” she shared. “We participated in a lot of workshops where we learned about the city's response to COVID, civil service, HR, and more. We also heard from the Health Equity Office and the health department, which I now work in!”
Kayla’s fellowship landed her in the City of Long Beach’s Health & Human Services department where she assisted the Collective Impact Bureau at the Ron Arias Health Equity Center in North Long Beach, next to Jordan High School. There, she collaborated with Pacific Gateway and the April Parker Foundation to co-develop Futures First, a youth-centered program designed to serve Opportunity Youth, which entails young people disconnected from school and work. The program provides career development, transitional housing resources, one-on-one case management, wellness retreats, and more.
“I was able to help with marketing strategies, tools, and even canvassing,” Kayla explained. “We went out, passed out flyers, and talked directly with our youth. It was hands on community engagement and meaningful.”
Kayla also played a key role in organizing the first-ever Youth Day in the LBC, held at Cabrillo High School. This event brought together hundreds of youths for a vibrant day of community connection, resources, and celebration. With appearances by Vince Staples, a Long Beach raised artist, a fireside chat with Long Beach Mayor Rex Richard, free food, music, and activities like drumming and obstacle courses, the event became a product of how aiding youth leads to a prosperous community.
Today, Kayla works in homeless services, continuing her mission of service through case management and direct support for vulnerable populations. She credits her experience in the LBPSC for shaping her career path and providing critical connections. “Networking is everything,” she advises. “Don’t be afraid to ask someone to grab coffee. Most people are more than happy to make time for you.”
