Kristen Brown is the Founder and Director of TRIBE, a community-focused non-profit that integrates unique learning experiences, family support, and strategic outreach with a focus on the wellness of children and families. TRIBE offers more than 50 fun and educational activities per week, each for only $5, and also provides free donated clothing and shoes to local families. TRIBE has served more than 1700 families, and Brown oversees a team of nearly 130 volunteers who lead programs and activities at TRIBE. Before founding TRIBE, Brown spent 12 years as Regional Director for All American Youth Activities in Tampa and served as Director of Client Services for Adelante Live, Inc. for 10 years. Brown is a graduate of the University of South Florida and a member of the School Advisory Committee for Broward and Seminole Heights Elementary schools. In 2021, Kristen was honored by the Tampa Bay Lightning and Vinik Family Foundation as a “Community Hero.” The DeBartolo Family Foundation also awarded her the “Spirit of Humanity” award.


What surprises you most about being a mom?

How hard it is, almost all the time! My son is 12. Over and over, just as things have gotten easier, we’ve entered a new season with new challenges. It’s not that I expected being a mom would always be easy, but I am still surprised at how often I feel unprepared to navigate the current obstacle, and how much I still need support, resources, and tools to find my way through.

Who has been impactful in your journey as a mother? What lessons do you carry with you and share often through motherhood?

The village of women who raised me came primarily in the form of stepmothers, bonus moms, mamas, mommas, nanas, and the close friends I authentically share the journey of motherhood with. However, one of my greatest unexpected sources of inspiration, and someone I have looked to as a parenting role model is my younger brother. Despite the fact that he became a father very young—with odds stacked against him—he is one of the most present, patient, and impactful parents I have known, and has been very close to my nephew his entire life.

What continues to inspire you in your motherhood journey?

Other moms. The moments when I am able to connect with other moms are more inspiring and impactful than any other moments I spend working with families. To see the depth of love women are capable of, and to witness the strength and determination they will exhibit in order to be the mother their children needs, is incredible. I’m also inspired by the women who create programs and services for children, especially the ones they needed for their own but did not previously exist.