Mr Brown is one of six men to be nominated for the second annual Lifeline Hunter Central Coast Brass Blokes award.

The successful recipient of the Brass Bloke award will be someone who has faced a significant personal, family or work-related challenge and overcame it.

Mr Brown struggled with gambling and substance abuse since he left home at age 16.

He turned his life around more than two years ago, kicking his bad habits.

His focus turned to running, entering long-distance events.

Over the past two years Mr Brown has also juggled running with volunteer work and raising funds, pulling a combined total of $7000 for charities including Ronald McDonald House, Soul Cafe, Glory Home Thailand and a water pump for a village in the Solomon Islands.

Mr Brown also volunteers with Samaritans and started speaking at high schools, talking to students about the impact of good and bad decisions, self-belief and asking others for help.

"I like helping people and sharing my own story. I let them know that I was in a similar situation and give them hope."

■ The Brass Blokes Award will be held on Friday, July 17, at Newcastle Panthers. To buy tickets, go to lifelinehunter.org.au or phone 4940 2000.

Luke Reynolds McFadden, Nelson Bay

Steve Harrison, Lochinvar

Mark Hughes, Merewether

Phil Camden, Redhead

 Gary Brown, Broadmeadow