The Crucial Role of CHI: Duke Mitchell's Testimony

Duke Mitchell gives testimony at a recent Multnomah County Public Budget Hearing

"I pray that the Community Healing Initiative program continues to help and support all families, just like my own." - Duke Mitchell

Duke Mitchell (left) and Armando Fuller (right) waiting to speak at the Multnomah County Public Budget Hearing

At a recent Multnomah County Public Budget Hearing, 18-year-old Duke Mitchell gave compelling testimony on the profound impact of the Community Healing Initiative (CHI) at POIC. As a senior at Rosemary Anderson High School East Campus set to graduate in June, Duke's experiences highlight the essential services provided by CHI that have helped him reach such an important milestone and underscore the critical need for continued funding.

The passionate testimony was spurred on because the funding source for the programming that has helped Duke and so many other families is set to go by the wayside due to budget reallocation. CHI’s Early Intervention programming has been in place since 2015, receiving funds for nearly a decade. However, this year the funding is no longer secure.

Duke Mitchell’s Testimony

Duke Mitchell and his grandmother at the CHI Family Summit

Duke began by thanking Chair Vega Pederson for the opportunity to speak as he described the role CHI has played in his life, offering support beyond immediate needs and addressing the broader challenges faced by families in the community. Duke's connection with CHI has been instrumental in helping him stay on track to graduate, despite the difficulties he has encountered. From his Grandmother’s health issues (she’s also his primary caretaker) to the trauma of losing several classmates to gun violence, CHI has been there every step of the way to make sure he completes his education by offering grief counseling, mentorship, and all the necessities. Through the guidance of his mentor CHI Family Care Manager David Allen, Duke was encouraged to stay on track.

“Duke lacked a strong male role model in his life, being raised by his grandmother. I was able to work with him so easily because he listened, and followed my advice and encouragement. I was consistent with him, as well, and always followed through with things.”

— David Allen, CHI Family Care Manager

David's relationship with Duke began with CHI in the racially charged summer of 2020 following the murder of George Floyd. Duke was placed on probation for criminal mischief. Despite his challenges, David and Duke quickly developed a strong mentorship bond.

Duke struggled with regular school attendance even though he lived less than a mile from Rosemary Anderson’s East Campus. However, his active participation in CHI activities proved he was one of David’s best mentees. Facing the risk of not graduating with his class, Duke explored alternative credit options, including the Oregon Youth Challenge Program in Bend, Oregon. This six-month intensive program quickly earned Duke nine credits and gave him essential skills in time management, discipline, and self-awareness. Graduating from this program helped Duke get back on track for high school graduation. He has since completed probation and is thriving.

Tangible Support and Essential Resources

Duke pointing out the POIC mission statement and tagline at Rosemary Anderson High School East Campus written on the wall, rewriting life stories

In his testimony, Duke emphasized the range of resources that CHI provides to participants and their families, including school supplies, hygiene products, clothes, and food. These resources are vital for students like Duke, and with them, he can focus on his education without the added burden of worrying about basic necessities. CHI's support also extends to assisting families with home and rent bills, providing a level of stability that is crucial for academic and personal success.

CHI's impact is not limited to material support. The program is dedicated to empowering youth and guiding them through their educational journey. Duke's testimony reflects this commitment, as does the level of care received by attending Rosemary Anderson.

The Safest Place

As a young boy, Duke Mitchell spent afternoons in this playground behind the Portland apartment complex near Southeast 174th Avenue and Division Street where he used to live. He chose this location for his portrait by The Oregonian/OregonLive. It’s where he discovered the world beyond his apartment. “This is where it all started,” he said. - 2022 Oregonian Media Group
Oregonian story by **Noelle Crombie;** photography by **Beth Nakamura**

Despite often arriving late to school, Duke remained determined to graduate. This determination, nurtured by CHI’s unwavering support, is crucial for young people like Duke facing systemic challenges. A snapshot into that time in Duke’s life is recapped in the award-winning Oregonian 4-part series “The Safest Place.”

"The Safest Place," which documented Duke's educational journey two years ago, highlights the importance of individualized educational care at Rosemary Anderson High School. Knowing where Duke is now, the article provides even greater context to Duke's resilience, detailing how he continued to attend Rosemary Anderson, determined to graduate despite personal hardships. His story is a testament to the transformative impact of Rosemary Anderson and the essential additional role CHI plays in supporting at-risk youth through wrap-around services.

The Broader Impact on the Community

CHI’s benefits extend beyond individual participants. By supporting families and fostering a sense of community, the programming creates a ripple effect of positive change. When youth like Duke are given the tools and support they need to succeed, they are more likely to contribute positively to society, breaking cycles of poverty and disadvantage. This creates a ripple effect that improves the broader community and helps Portland and surrounding areas become safer.

CHI staff at this year’s Annual Parent Summit

The Need for Continued Funding

Duke’s testimony highlights the critical need for continued funding for CHI. The resources and support provided by the program are indispensable for many families, and without adequate funding, these essential services are at risk. Programs like CHI are investments in the future, offering both immediate relief and long-term benefits.

Duke poignantly stated, “I pray that the Community Healing Initiative program continues to help and support all families, just like my own.” His heartfelt plea underscores the urgency of maintaining funding for CHI. CHI serves Multnomah and Washington Counties through culturally specific support programming, providing essential pro-social activities and skill development for youth and their families.