MedNorth Health Center recently announced the appointment of Kevin Blackburn to its board of directors.

According to a news release, Blackburn has spent 13 years in youth development in Wilmington, serving in program, operations and leadership roles across multiple organizations. He is the executive director of Kids Making It (KMI), a nationally recognized nonprofit woodworking and youth development program based in Wilmington.

"Using trauma-informed youth development, KMI transforms lives through the power of skills, resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and opportunity. KMI serves kids facing major barriers to success, helping them stay in school, stay out of trouble, and transition to lifelong success," the release stated. "Under his leadership, KMI maintains a 98% success rate in keeping participants out of the juvenile justice system."

According to the release, Blackburn was recently appointed as a member of the N.C. Gang Prevention & Intervention Task Force, where he chairs the Prevention Working Group. 

Blackburn attended the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he graduated with honors, receiving a bachelor’s degree in business management and leadership, the release stated.

"He fervently believes that one caring adult can change a kid's life forever," according to the release. "He loves working with his hands, reading, and chasing the most interesting songs across any genre of music. Kevin enjoys the outdoors and traveling whenever possible with his wife Marissa, and their two boys, Finn and Liam."