Anthony Howard Brown, born on September 26, 1961, is an African American behavioral health nurse, homelessness advocate, addiction treatment counselor, college professor, author, speaker, and business owner. His journey from a troubled past to becoming a key figure in mental health and addiction recovery is a story of resilience, transformation, and dedication.
Early Life and Struggles
Brown’s early life in Ohio was marked by significant challenges. Raised by an alcoholic and depressed single mother, he never met his father and experienced physical abuse from family members and even a teacher. These experiences led him to drop out of school in the eighth grade. His exposure to alcohol began at the age of seven, and by fourteen, he had developed drug habits. Brown’s childhood was further marred by witnessing traumatic events, including a shooting at age eight and his mother being shot in the head at age nine.
At fourteen, Brown ran away from home, seeking escape from the chaos. He lived in abandoned houses and worked for a carnival, often sleeping under amusement park rides. This period of instability continued until he turned eighteen.
Downward Spiral and Turning Point
Brown’s journey brought him to California, where he continued to face hardships. Initially living in a friend’s garage with other addicts, he was eventually kicked out after stealing from them. His job at a fast-food restaurant also ended in disaster, as he sold drugs through the drive-thru and stole from the cash register. This lifestyle led to multiple arrests over the next eleven years for various offenses, including assault and battery, resisting arrest, and possession and sale of controlled substances.
A pivotal moment came when a police officer offered him help, leading him to Nancy and an alternative sentencing program. This program provided Brown with a stable environment and support, requiring him to attend 12-step meetings and find employment. However, despite achieving 18 months of sobriety, a relapse occurred, resulting in a 12-year prison sentence. Nancy’s continued support and his time in prison allowed Brown to rebuild his life. He viewed his incarceration as a rescue, providing the stability he needed to recover.
Educational and Professional Achievements
During his time in county jail, Brown earned his GED and, upon release, pursued further education. He graduated from Cypress College with an associate degree in Psychiatric Technology in 2003, becoming a Licensed Psychiatric Technician in 2004. He continued his education at Santa Ana College, earning an associate degree in science and becoming a Registered Nurse in 2011. Brown furthered his education at California State University, Fullerton, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2021, he completed his master’s degree in nursing at the United States University.
Brown’s professional journey began in Southern California, where he specialized in co-occurring disorders—mental health issues coupled with substance abuse. He developed and directed a long-term residential treatment model during a four-year partnership with a treatment center. In 2013, he founded Coordinating & Assisting Recovery Environments (C.A.R.E.), a cognitive-based, educational bridge program for individuals with mental illness and substance abuse disorders. The program was created to provide ongoing education and support, addressing the high recidivism rate among this population.
Contributions and Current Endeavors
Beyond his work with C.A.R.E., Brown is currently developing a rehabilitation facility called Brown Manor. This project aims to support homeless individuals by providing them with a stable environment and responsibilities, helping them regain control of their lives. The facility, housed in an abandoned mansion, will include a house manager and a small group of residents tasked with maintaining the property.
Brown is also a founding member of the Jeanette Joan Saffold Foundation, further demonstrating his commitment to community support and advocacy.
Authorship and Media Presence
Brown’s experiences and insights have been shared through various media. He is the author of the book From Park Bench to Park Avenue, which chronicles his journey and offers hope to those facing similar challenges. He has also been featured in the documentary Lost Angeles: City of Homeless and has a weekly show on the Holy Spirit Broadcasting Network.
Additionally, Brown has been a guest on several podcasts and has been interviewed by various magazines, including Recovery Today Magazine, Addiction Recovery Bulletin, All the Wiser Podcast, Let the Journey Begin, Super Sober Podcast, and the Dr. Drew Podcast. His participation in these platforms highlights his dedication to raising awareness about mental health, addiction, and homelessness.
Anthony Howard Brown’s life is a testament to the power of resilience and the possibility of transformation. From a troubled youth marked by addiction, homelessness, and incarceration, he has emerged as a leader in behavioral health and addiction recovery. His work through C.A.R.E. and other initiatives continues to impact individuals and communities, providing support and education to those in need. Brown’s story serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the potential for change.