CCC’s podcast, They Are Us: Breaking Through Stigma, continues to shed light on the realities of homelessness and substance use in Portland, featuring voices from people in recovery and frontline experts. Hosted by Juliana Lukasik, CCC’s Public Affairs Director, the series challenges stigma by sharing stories and expert insights on the complex paths to healing and stability.
As episodes air, they will be available on our Podcast page!
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Listen to Episode 3
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Episode 3 Summary
In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode, host Juliana speaks with Amalie Roberts, a community health outreach worker at CCC. Amalie’s empathy, lived experience, and deep community connection not only inspired the title of our podcast but also reflect the core of what it means to do this work: recognizing the humanity in everyone.
Together, Juliana and Amalie explore the role of empathy in outreach, how trust and small acts of kindness lead to lasting relationships, and why the most basic needs like rest and food are crucial first steps on the path to healing. Amalie shares stories from the field that illustrate just how powerful consistent, compassionate presence can be—from helping a longtime couple find housing after 16 years outside to offering comfort in a moment of crisis. Her reflections are a testament to the quiet power of showing up and seeing people just as they are.
A Journey from Restaurant Owner to Street Outreach
Amalie shares how she transitioned from owning a restaurant in Portland to becoming an outreach worker. What started with folding tables and bowls of oatmeal grew into years of deep, relationship-based support for people living outside. Her story is a testament to the impact of simply showing up, listening, and seeing others as equals.
“They Are Us”—What That Really Means
The title of this podcast came from something Amalie said in a CCC video: “They are us.” In this episode, she revisits that phrase, reflecting on the fragility of circumstances and the reality that any of us could be one tragedy, diagnosis, or loss away from needing the kind of support CCC provides. It’s a simple truth with profound weight. This episode is a call to shift our thinking from “us and them” to “we.” Through Amalie’s words, we’re reminded that healing starts with seeing each other clearly and showing up again and again with empathy.
The Power of Time, Trust, and Small Wins
Through stories of the people she’s supported, including a couple who had lived on the streets for over 16 years, Amalie emphasizes the long game of outreach. Trust takes time and so does healing. But progress is real. From reunifying families to helping someone access medical care or simply breathe through a tough moment, Amalie shows how hope begins with connection.
Listen to the third episode here and stay tuned for more honest stories and expert discussions that break stigma and foster understanding of homelessness and substance use disorders in our community.
