The Diversity Institute Report Final

This program is a direct response to an issue presented at an African-American Alliance Breakfast in spring of 2008. There it was asked, “Who in the city is addressing the issue of our (young African-American) male being disenfranchised, and who is stepping up to the plate to help prepare them to be successful and productive members of society?”

The purpose of this collaboration is to provide the 21ST Century Educational Model that coordinates and collaborates with schools (elementary – middle – high school), government agencies, unions, private entities, social agencies and community colleges and universities. This is the first time that unions, public entities and private entities will work together and take an active role in training and educating today’s youth to become tomorrow’s workforce.

These four organizations (Thomas Jefferson High School/YMA, PDC, PCC and the Diversity Institute) have taken responsibility for leading our region into the future as it relates to diversity, economic development, public relations and education. We all share the understanding and know the importance of public involvement and giving back to the youth in our communities. We believe strongly in the five keys of success: access, accountability, communication, education and relationship building.

What are responsibilities for each participant in this pilot program?

1. YMA- Young Men’s Academy (6th grade – 9th grade)
   • Provide viable youths (actively participating in the Young Men’s Academy) who are skilled and poised enough to take advantage of the opportunities provided in the collaboration
2. PDC- Portland Development Commission
   • Provide collaborations with other PDC partners  (unions, private business, government)
   • Provide mentors for a variety of careers, including trades
   • Provide business exposure opportunities
3. PCC- Portland Community College
   • PCC will provide coordination with YMA for coursework and credit acquisition
   • Provide a site coordinator to work with YMA Principal
   • Provide schedules in advance for planning
   • Provide accreditation of class work
   • Provide instructors
   • Provide mechanism for YMA staff to do Dual Credit with PCC instructor
   • Provide college exposure
   • Provide Career Mapping through jobs exposed to through business collaboration
   • Provide access to computer labs
   • Provide tutors during and after school for PCC students
   • Provide teachers from PCC Teacher Institute
   • Provide parent meeting with explanation of secondary opportunities: High  School Completion, College, Certification
4. The Diversity Institute
   • Coordinate collaboration between PCC, PDC (other companies, organizations and governmental entities) and YMA
   • Provide and organize scholarship banquets, workshops and other fund raising opportunities

“The key to changing the world is that you must be willing to change your mind.”
Harold C. Williams Two (The Diversity Institute/CH2A)

Contact Person:
Harold C. Williams Two
Cell: (503)490-0755
haroldtwoch2a@msn.com