The Crossroads
The Crossroads
Rick Mitchell: Homeless ID Project
Rick Mitchell: Homeless ID Project
Rick Mitchell: Homeless ID Project
Friday 25th July 2025
Rick Mitchell discusses the Homeless ID Project's impact on homelessness, recovery, and employment by providing vital identification services.
45 minutes
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Episode Overview
- Rick Mitchell's transition from for-profit to nonprofit work.
- Importance of IDs for housing and employment.
- Homeless ID Project's collaboration with local authorities.
- Community involvement and support opportunities.
- Social and economic impact of homelessness.
"The only thing you can get without an ID is arrested."
In this enlightening episode of Recovery On-Air, Kristen Day welcomes Rick Mitchell, the Executive Director of the Homeless ID Project. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping individuals experiencing homelessness obtain crucial identification documents such as state IDs and birth certificates. These documents are often the first step toward securing housing, employment, and recovery. Rick Mitchell shares his journey from the for-profit world to leading the Homeless ID Project.
His interest in the organization was sparked over 14 years ago when his wife began volunteering with the Ecumenical Chaplaincy for the Homeless, which later evolved into the Homeless ID Project. Rick became deeply involved, eventually serving on the board and later stepping into the role of executive director. The episode highlights the significant barriers that lack of identification can create for individuals trying to transition from homelessness to stability.
Without an ID, individuals face difficulties in accessing housing, employment, and even basic services. Rick recounts hearing from clients that the only thing one can get without an ID is arrested—a stark reminder of the dire consequences. The Homeless ID Project works closely with local authorities, including the Sheriff's Office and the Department of Corrections, to address these challenges. They offer services at no cost to the individuals they serve, and their efforts have helped over 15,000 people each year.
Rick explains how the organization has evolved its processes, such as transitioning from having live MVD representatives to using kiosks for client interactions. Rick also discusses the broader social and economic impacts of homelessness, emphasizing that many homeless individuals are part of families with children. The costs associated with homelessness, such as emergency room visits and first responder services, are substantial.
Initiatives like those in Chandler, Arizona, where resources are directed towards helping homeless individuals and families, demonstrate the potential for reducing long-term costs and improving lives. Listeners are encouraged to support the Homeless ID Project and get involved with local efforts to assist individuals in need. Rick's compelling stories and insights offer hope and inspiration for those looking to make a difference in their communities.