A Journey of Dedication and Service: Meet Your Council Candidate

Hello, neighbors! My name is KEVIN KANE, and I was born in the vibrant city of Clifton. For over two decades, I have proudly called Garfield my home. My life has been a journey defined by hard work and dedication. I wasn’t born into wealth, but I have experienced both prosperity and financial struggles. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective on life and have shaped my values of resilience, resourcefulness, and appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape our community. At the core of who I am is my profound commitment to family. I am a devoted husband and a proud father of two wonderful children. My decision to run for council comes from a deep desire to ensure that my family, and all families in our community, have a chance to thrive in a supportive and nurturing environment. I am committed to working tirelessly to create a better world for everyone in our town.

My dedication to helping others goes beyond my own family. I believe in giving generously, whether it’s emotional support, physical help, or financial aid. I’m here to offer a helping hand to anyone in need, regardless of my own financial situation. Compassion and generosity are values I hold dear, and I’m dedicated to uplifting others in their times of need. I am proud to say that I remain impartial and free from political ties or corporate influences. I’m running a grassroots campaign, relying on the support of our community rather than big corporations. My commitment is to you, the residents of Garfield, not to special interests.

I have a deep love for animals and have cared for many pets over the years. This passion for animals reflects my commitment to responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. I aim to foster a compassionate community that cares for all its members, human and animal alike. I dream of creating a community where everyone feels safe and connected, like the idyllic towns you see on TV. I want a place where kids can leave their bikes on the lawn without fear, and where we don’t have to worry about our cars being stolen. I’m committed to working tirelessly to make our town a better, safer place for all.

My journey in education began as a licensed teacher in New Jersey, where I contributed significantly to the field for over 15 years. I served as an examiner for the Board of Cosmetology, gaining valuable insights into governance and policy implementation. I take pride in having crafted curriculums for five schools, demonstrating my dedication to quality education. As a motivational speaker for Paul Mitchell, I focused on anti-bullying and helping troubled youth find the right path. I was also a platform artist at industry trade shows, which honed my communication skills and allowed me to connect with diverse audiences. As a General Manager and Hairstylist, I’ve shown effective leadership and strategic decision-making, crucial skills for a Council position. I also want to share that I went to college later in life to show my children that it’s never too late to learn and get an education. This experience underscores my belief that continuous learning and personal growth are vital at any stage of life.

I've raised over $100,000 for various causes in collaboration with Paul Mitchell, including the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and more. My commitment to philanthropy aligns with my belief in a well-rounded community experience. I’ve been actively involved in Garfield’s educational system through the Home and School Association (HSA), Pre-K security meetings, and volunteering at school events. I hope that my involvement will influence others to be more active in the community.

One of my key strengths is my impartiality. I have no political ties within Garfield, allowing me to focus solely on the needs of our community. I see myself as a liaison for the people of our community, bridging the gap between the Council and the expectations of families.

I invite everyone to join me on this journey. I believe that anyone can step up and make a difference. If you have something meaningful to contribute, I encourage you to do so. My goal is to see the best person leading our community, and I’m willing to pass the torch if someone else can do it better. Reflecting on my move to Garfield two decades ago, I know times have changed. Growth and progress are essential, but we don’t have to compromise our core values. This campaign is about moving forward together, preserving the essence of our community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. Together, we can make Garfield a better place for all.