Hello, my name is Katie and I am one of the Interns for Justice this summer. This summer I am pursuing my service in the Northeast Portland community of New Columbia. I am working alongside Assefash Melles who is a mental health therapist that works with the African communities of Portland. In New Columbia, Assefash has developed a small group of youth that come together every Tuesday and Thursday to talk about certain topics. Together, this summer we are working together to develop a program that is centered upon Mental Health Literacy (MHL).
I decided I wanted to be an Intern for Justice this summer because I believe there is something beautiful about giving your time and energy to something your passionate about with your whole heart. There is something so incredibly overpowering and unique about just BEING with others. It is something so simple yet, I find myself too often times then not struggling to live in the moment and really devoting my time and energy to those around me. I love that with this project I am able to devote my whole heart to the people of New Columbia. Although, I will be sharing my knowledge of mental health with the community here, I know I am going to learn far more from the people that I am with. Living and being in community with one another has sparked so much joy in my heart.
A little more about the group I am working with this summer…
Many of the youth we work with are refugees who recently arrived in the United States, or whose families have found refuge in the United States for many years. The youth we are working with range from 5th graders to 8th graders. They are an energetic young group full of many ideas and opinions. We recently just began our Mental Health Literacy Project this week. Our days are full of conversation, activities and laughter. This week’s topic is Mental Wellness, and we have been strategizing and coming up with ways we can keep our mind healthy and strong. We also have discussed how important our physical health helps maintain our mental health.
One of my favorite memories from this week was when at the end of our session, we each shared one thing that brings us joy. One of the girls shared how much she loves singing. She shared how when life gets overwhelming or when she feels sad, she sings. Singing for her helps let everything go and reminds her of her happiest memories. Thus, in light of our discussion she sang Amazing Grace for us, and her voice was one of the most beautiful and influential thing I have heard. It was a beautiful way to end our session.
Many of the youth we work have been through some sort of trauma, along with adjusting to a new life in the United States, and with this in mind we have create four core components for our community work. The first core component of our community work is recognizing mental health issues and their cause. Second, supporting youth with access to services. Third, to possess an attitude conducive to seeking help. Fourth, increasing community acceptance and understanding. The ultimate purpose of creating this group is helping youth in their journey to healing. I am more than excited to begin jumping into the curriculum I have been preparing for this group, and I can’t wait to share more with you.
In addition to my Mental Health Literacy project, I have recently begun the process of developing a mentoring program for high school students and high school graduates in New Columbia. This weekend I will be meeting with a small group of students to discuss establishing a formal group. The vision for this group is to provide information, resources and mentorship in each student’s journey towards pursuing a college education.
Although, my time in New Columbia has just begun, I look forward to all the challenges and victories that are ahead of us. I have attached a photograph of the youth space we facilitate our group discussions in. Thank you to everyone for the unending support to get this project started!
Well wishes,
Katie
