Charlie Brown (Indiana politician) facts for kids

Charlie Brown (born March 8, 1938) is a former American politician. He was a member of the Democratic party. From 1982 to 2018, he represented the 3rd District in the Indiana House of Representatives. Mr. Brown is African-American. He was also part of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus. In 2017, he decided not to run for re-election.

Early Life

Charlie Brown was born on March 8, 1938. His birthplace was Williston, South Carolina. He spent his childhood growing up in Philadelphia.

Education

In 1961, Charlie Brown earned his first college degree. He received a bachelor's degree from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. This school is a public university. It is also a historically Black institution. In 1982, he earned a master's degree. He got this degree from Indiana University Northwest.

Career and Public Service

In 1961, Charlie Brown started his career as a teacher. He taught at the Gary Community School Corporation. He worked there until 1968.

From 1968 to 1988, he held many important roles. He was a youth coordinator for the City of Gary. He also helped the Mayor with youth activities. Later, he directed the Youth Services Bureau. He also worked as an affirmative action officer.

In 1982, Charlie Brown became a state representative. He joined the Indiana House of Representatives. He represented District 3.

From 1988 to 1993, he was the CEO. He led the Gary Community Mental Health Center. Today, he works as a consultant. He helps groups work better with government and communities.

Making a Difference in Politics

Charlie Brown was first elected in 1982. He served in the Indiana House of Representatives for many years. He was the chairman of the Public Health Committee. This committee works on health laws.

In 2007, he helped create a new health care plan. It was called the Indiana Checkup Plan. This plan aimed to improve health care for people in Indiana. It helped more people get health insurance. It also improved care for pregnant mothers. The plan encouraged businesses to start wellness programs.

In 2010, Charlie Brown announced a new partnership. It was between the Gary Community Health Center and a dentist. This dentist worked with Medicaid. Medicaid is a program that helps people pay for health care. Brown said this partnership was a positive step for Gary.

He also served on a national health committee. This committee was part of the National Conference of State Legislatures. He was also a member of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus. This group works on issues important to African-American communities.

Personal Life

Charlie Brown is married to Angela Baker Brown. They have one child together. He lives in Gary, Indiana.