Braden Phillips is a retired Naval officer who spent 27 years as a carrier aviator, amphibious ship and squadron commander, and financial manager. He also worked for 20 years with the City of Long Beach, including over 14 years as the Administration Bureau Chief of the Long Beach Police Department.
Now retired, Captain Phillips is involved with numerous non-profit organizations as a Board member. One of those is the Rotary Club of Long Beach, whose focus on literacy through the “Reading By Nine” program introduced him to the book Maybe Something Beautiful by Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell. He had the opportunity to read to second graders at Webster Elementary School, which he found tremendously rewarding.
“The story focuses how one person can make a difference, and how bringing colors to a grey neighborhood can change lives,” he says. “Each of us can be a catalyst for change. It simply requires the courage of your convictions and the willingness to take a chance.”
Book: Maybe Something Beautiful
Authors: Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell
The book, which was recommended to him by educators at Long Beach Unified School District, tells the tale of a young girl whose appreciation of and passion for color made a profound change in her neighborhood and her neighbors. “It was a beautiful story that I hope young people can embrace,” he gushes.
Captain Phillips believes that reading is a fundamental building block in life. “It enables the ability to exchange information, provide necessary guidance and direction, and serve as a basis for interpersonal communication necessary to sustain our society.”
“If people are not involved in programs to help develop our youth, I encourage them to seek out an opportunity with a mission you can embrace, and get involved,” he suggests. “You'll make a difference and feel good doing it.”
