Overcoming obstacles led Burney to community service

Larry “L.B.” Burney Jr. admits things haven’t always been easy, but his sunny disposition and determination have led him along the path to success.

Born with cerebral palsy, the 28-year-old Kinston native never let his disability cripple his dreams.

Despite struggling through school, Burney graduated from Kinston High School during 1999 and Fayetteville State University during 2008.

“School was hard for me,” Burney said. “I just said I could do it, and I graduated.”

Bobby Dawson, Lenoir Community College head basketball coach, served as Burney’s mentor during his time at the school, from 1999 to 2003. His physical limitations kept him out of the game, but he was never far from the sidelines.

“He became our manager,” Dawson said. “If we would lose a game, it would hurt him just as bad.”

Dawson said nothing ever kept Burney down.

“He wasn’t going to take no for answer,” Dawson said. “He never wanted pity, that’s what I liked about him.”

The support Burney received from his family, friends, church and community members inspired him to return to Kinston after graduating from FSU.

“I just wanted to come back home and give back to the community,” he said. “I wanted to help others because so many people helped me along the way.”

Burney’s dream to make a difference in the lives of young people became a reality when he was hired to be the program assistant for the Kinston Youth Enrichment Project’s after-school program.

“He was one of the first people on our team,” Theresa Williams, executive director of KYEP, said. “He just has such a kind spirit.”

Williams said it didn’t take Burney long to become a vital part of the team.

“He really takes time to sit and talk to the kids,” she said. “He’s a really positive role model.

“I think he’s unique in that he’s able to take what he’s learned and give back to the community.”

Burney recently took on the role of service learning coordinator at KYEP.

“He will be working with local youth to coordinate a series of monthly community service project that will culminate on Global Youth Service Day on April 23-25,” Williams said.

The 2010 Keeper of the Dream award was presented to Burney during the third annual “Celebrating the Dream through Service” sponsored by KYEP.

Williams said the honor is traditionally bestowed upon individuals who are making strides to positively impact in the community.

Burney’s future plans include working to improve the community through youth enrichment.

“This is just a start,” he said. “I’m a living example that if you never give up you’ll be successful.”

Sarah Campbell can be reached at 252-559-1076 or scampbell@freedomenc.com.