Keith Marshall Affirming Services Lead Case Manager

By JP Emerson

Please introduce yourself? 

My name is Keith Marshall, my pronouns are he/him, and I am the Lead Case Manager for Affirming Services at the North County LGBTQ Resource Center.

Give our readers a bit of history? 

I’ve been actively involved in the LGBTQ+ community since I came out at age 19. Through both my professional work and volunteering with various organizations, I found a deep sense of purpose in advocating for equality and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. San Diego has always been home for me—born at Scripps Mercy Hospital and raised here too—so this community has shaped me in many ways. 

When I am not working or volunteering, I love exploring the outdoors, whether hiking one of San Diego’s beautiful trails or catching a volleyball match at the beach. I am also a big fan of trying out new restaurants and bars—it is such a fun way to experience different cultures and connect with people. Above all, spreading kindness and positivity through advocacy is a huge part of who I am. 

Would you tell our readers about your roll as Affirming Services Lead Case Manager? 

As the Affirming Services Lead Case Manager, my role is centered around providing compassionate, inclusive, and affirming support to individuals navigating various challenges. I work directly with clients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community. 

My responsibilities include connecting clients to resources, advocating for their needs, and developing personalized plans to help them achieve stability and growth. I also oversee and guide a team of case managers, ensuring our services align with best practices and are delivered in a way that is both empowering and respectful of each person’s unique journey. 

We always say “seeing you represented makes a difference for our community.” Would you talk about the resources gear towards the black sector of our community The North County LGBTQ Resource Center offers? 

Representation truly matters and it is critical that every member of our LGBTQ+ community feels seen, supported, and celebrated. At the North County LGBTQ Resource Center, we’re committed to addressing the unique needs of the Black and Brown LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on trans and nonbinary people of color who face disproportionate challenges. 

Our work emphasizes creating safe and empowering environments where individuals can share their experiences, connect with others, and receive culturally competent care and advocacy. Additionally, we partner with organizations and initiatives that center the voices of Black and Brown trans and nonbinary individuals to ensure their needs are prioritized in every aspect of our work. 

Would you talk about your own experience? 

Coming out at age 19 was a life-changing moment, but it also came with its own set of challenges. At the time, I had no knowledge about LGBTQ-affirming healthcare or resources to guide me through health, safety, or emotional support. Support groups or services tailored to individuals like me were not readily available, so I had to navigate that journey on my own. 

Through that process, I became my own advocate, researching and finding the resources I needed to take care of myself. It was not easy but it taught me the importance of persistence and self-empowerment. Along the way, I began sharing what I learned with friends who were just as uninformed as I had been. That experience of supporting one another and building knowledge together showed me how crucial it is to have a sense of community. 

Finding and creating those affirming spaces where we could show up authentically and support one another was transformative. It fueled my passion for advocacy and for ensuring others do not have to face the same barriers I did. Everyone deserves access to the resources, tools, and spaces that help them thrive, and I am deeply committed to helping make that a reality. 

Can our readers get to know you a bit better, any hobbies or interest? 

Of course! When I am not working, you can sometimes find me at the local gay bars in Hillcrest, enjoying the lively atmosphere and connecting with friends. I am also a big foodie, so I love grabbing a bowl of ramen on Convoy or anything really.

I have a deep interest in learning new languages, as it is such a great way to connect with different cultures and people. Traveling is another passion of mine and I just had an amazing experience ringing in the New Year in Italy.

Spending time with friends is something I truly value, whether it is trying a new spot in town, sharing a good laugh, or just enjoying each other’s company. 

How can folks connect with you at the North County LGBTQ Resource Center? 

Folks can connect with me and the North County LGBTQ Resource Center in several ways. If you would like to reach out to the Center directly, you can call us at 760-994-1690 or email our front desk at Frontdesk@northcountycenter.org. 

For those who self-identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community and want to connect with me specifically, feel free to reach out to me at affirmingservices@northcountycenter.org. I would love to hear from you! 

We are located in Oceanside at 1919 Apple Street, and while the center is based in North County, my program proudly serves all of San Diego County. No matter where you are located, we are here to support you and provide affirming, inclusive resources tailored to your needs.