They Are Us

Published by Central City Concern

Non-Profit
Business

They Are Us: Breaking Through Stigma explores the root causes of homelessness and substance use, featuring personal stories from those in recovery alongside insights from local and national experts. Hosted by Juliana Lukasik, Central City Concern Public Affairs Director, this podcast challenges misconceptions, instills hope, and explores proven solutions in housing, health care, and employment to break the stigma. Produced by Central City Concern, a nonprofit based in Portland, Oregon.

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Recent episodes

Episode 10 - Why This Work Matters

Jan 13, 202616 min

Takeaways If someone is seeking help, they should be able to access it. There is a mismatch between the supply and demand of services. Supportive housing is crucial for successful recovery. Attracting behavioral health workers requires better incentives. Second-chance employers play a vital role in recovery. P2P methamphetamine is a growing concern in substance use. Community accountability is essential for effective resource allocation. Hope comes from witnessing recovery journeys. Alignment between city, county, and state can lead to better outcomes. Stories of resilience are invaluable in the recovery process.

Episode 9 - A Space for Second Chances

Dec 9, 202522 min

Takeaways Shawn Fox spent over 26 years in prison. He found purpose in leatherworking after incarceration. Gifting handmade crafts helped Shawn connect with others. Hope is essential for recovery and transformation. Recovery is not linear; relapses can happen. Community support is vital for those in recovery. Brandon Morlock founded Past Lives to support formerly incarcerated individuals. Past Lives Makerspace offers a space for creativity and learning trades. No one is irredeemable; everyone deserves a second chance. Art therapy can be a powerful tool for healing.

Episode 8 - A Place at the Table

Nov 12, 202520 min

Takeaways Blanchet House has been serving Portland for over 70 years. Food insecurity is a significant issue affecting many individuals. Collaboration among nonprofits is essential for effective service delivery. Residents at Blanchet House are required to contribute to their recovery. The program provides a structured environment for individuals to regain stability. Blanchet House operates entirely on private donations, with no government funding. Immediate assistance, like providing meals, is crucial for those in need. Personal stories highlight the impact of community support on recovery. The Clean Start program helps individuals reintegrate into the workforce. Hope and transformation are possible through dedicated support and services.

Episode 7 - More Than a Paycheck

Oct 6, 202524 min

Takeaways Employment is crucial for recovery and stability Access to job training can change lives Peer mentorship plays a vital role in recovery Community organizations collaborate to support individuals Mental health resources are essential for recovery Surrendering to the process is a key step in recovery Building relationships is important in the workforce Hope and resilience are central themes in recovery Louis's journey illustrates the power of support Carla emphasizes the importance of skill development

Episode 6 - More Than Clean Streets

Sep 8, 202529 min

Takeaways Clean Start provides meaningful employment for those in recovery. Community policing fosters trust between law enforcement and residents. The Clean and Safe program addresses public safety and cleanliness in Portland. Personal stories of recovery highlight the importance of support systems. Engagement with the homeless community is crucial for effective outreach. Statistics show the significant impact of Clean and Safe's work. Building relationships can change perceptions of law enforcement. Hope and recovery are possible through community support. The challenges of addiction are compounded by homelessness. Advocacy for effective programs is essential for community improvement.

Episode 5 - A Place for Us

Aug 8, 202527 min

Takeaways The Letty Owings Center provides a safe space for mothers in recovery. Women often arrive with minimal belongings and in need of immediate care. The program includes individual and group therapy, skill-building, and parenting groups. Residential treatment offers a structured environment for recovery. Many women face significant challenges, including past trauma and addiction. Support from staff and peers is crucial for success in recovery. Stigma and guilt can hinder recovery, especially for mothers. The program works closely with child welfare services to support families. Success stories highlight the transformative power of the program. Time is a critical factor in the recovery process.

Episode 4 - It Takes a Village

Jul 7, 202522 min

Takeaways Lance Orton shares his journey from addiction to recovery. Max Kinsella discusses his experience with City Team. Community support is crucial for individuals in recovery. Employment plays a vital role in successful recovery. City Team provides comprehensive services for those in need. The importance of lived experience in helping others. Collaboration among nonprofits enhances recovery efforts. Personal stories can inspire hope in others.

Episode 3 - Who Are They?

Jun 4, 202514 min

Takeaways The journey from restaurant owner to outreach worker can be transformative. Empathy is a crucial skill in outreach work. Building trust with the homeless takes time and patience. Community members can help by simply engaging with those in need. Success stories in outreach demonstrate the impact of consistent support. Collaboration with local organizations enhances outreach efforts. Basic needs like food and shelter are essential for recovery. A plan can instill hope in individuals facing challenges. Everyone has the potential to help in the homelessness crisis. The podcast title 'They Are Us' reflects our shared humanity.

Episode 2 - Surviving the Supply

May 6, 202529 min

Takeaways Bryce's journey illustrates the complexity of addiction and recovery. Seeking help is often a critical turning point in recovery. Community support plays a vital role in successful recovery. Innovative treatment methods are essential for addressing modern addiction challenges. Stigma surrounding addiction can hinder individuals from seeking help. Multiple attempts at recovery are common and should be normalized. The importance of having a support system in recovery cannot be overstated. Access to treatment beds is a significant barrier for many individuals. Understanding the evolving drug landscape is crucial for effective treatment. Empathy and connection are key components in treating substance use disorders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Episode 2 01:26 Bryce's Journey Through Addiction 05:05 The Turning Point: Seeking Help 12:09 The Fourth Time's the Charm 15:00 Bryce's New Life and Engagement 17:46 Dr. Amanda Risser on Treatment Innovations 28:36 Closing

They Are Us - Pilot

Apr 4, 202518 min

Takeaways The podcast addresses root causes of homelessness and addiction. Bryant's story illustrates resilience and the power of support. Central City Concern provides comprehensive services for recovery. Employment access is crucial for individuals in recovery. Fentanyl has changed the landscape of addiction in Portland. Community support plays a vital role in recovery journeys. The foster care system is linked to increased risk of homelessness. Statistical challenges exist for those with addiction histories. Affordable housing is a pressing need in urban and rural areas. Mental health support is essential for long-term recovery. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to They Are Us Podcast 01:18 Bryant's Journey from Addiction to Recovery 10:37 Expert Insights on Homelessness and Addiction