Our Team

Board of Directors

Our inspirational board members serve to make communities, education, and opportunities more equitable for Black and Brown youth.

Staff

At the heart of Elevate Youth are staff who reflect the lived experiences of the kids we serve. These connections are more than qualifications—they’re the foundation of trust, relatability, and transformative mentorships that define Elevate Youth. Our staff include those who:

Were once Elevate students themselves;
Come from or have lived in the communities they now serve;
Have had mentors in their own lives and understand the dedication it requires;
Bring years of experience working with youth in social service or educational settings.

I can see my own possible achievement in someone who looks like me.

- 11th Grade Student

My future seems reachable.

- 9th Grade Student

Elevate builds trusting relationships with our fantastic kids, and then connects them with a pathway to the future–a great future–one that they choose for themselves. For all of that, we rely on our community partners. And they come through.

- Donell Morgan, Executive Director

Administrative Team

Donell Morgan, Executive Director

Donell Morgan’s role as Executive Director at Elevate Youth culminates his life’s experiences. He grew up in the inner city, began his basketball career in high school which continued through college. He played basketball around the world. After retiring from basketball, Donell worked with youth at Echo Glen Children’s Center, a detention home. For 10 years, he coached basketball at Umpqua Community College, which kick-started his mentorship of young African American men. He was the first African American coach in Douglas County. Donell worked to open two Boys & Girls clubs in his hometown of Tacoma. Donell recently earned his MBA at Willamette University and continues to build life-changing relationships. He’s coached Parkrose High School’s Varsity basketball team for the last 7 years. His goal is to give back to his communities all that was given to him and more.

Kesha Roper, Deputy Director

A Portland native and proud alumni of Benson High School, Kesha holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Warner Pacific University. With 25 years of experience in working with youth and family serving organizations, Kesha has empowered the lives of countless youth. She’s been instrumental in mentoring, managing, and developing staff to effectively serve and elevate youth. As Deputy Director, Kesha brings strong leadership and relationship-building skills and is wholeheartedly passionate about uplifting the lives of everyone she encounters.

Tony Ande, Senior Advisor to the Executive Director

With over 40 years of experience, Tony Ande has held top roles like CEO, Executive Director, COO and CFO. He earned degrees from the University of Illinois, National University, the University of San Diego, and is a Certified Public Accountant. Known for expertise in accounting, financial analysis, leadership, and management, Tony is a true numbers guru. Beyond the office, he has volunteered for over 35 years with various non-profits. His favorite quote is from Harry S. Truman, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you do not care who gets the credit.”

District Managers

Life Experience & Wisdom Matter:

At the core of Elevate’s impact is the on-the-ground support provided by our full-time Teacher-Mentors. Each brings personal life experiences relatable to the emotional, educational, and cultural realities of our students. They work one-on-one with youth and behind the scenes—helping each kid rise up towards their fullest potential. We intentionally hire Teacher-Mentors and staff who:

Were once Elevate students themselves;
Come from or have lived in the communities they now serve;
Have had mentors in their own lives and understand the dedication it requires;
Bring years of experience working with youth and communities in social service or educational settings.

These connections are more than qualifications—they’re the foundation of trust, relatability, and transformative mentorships that define Elevate Youth.