Matthea Little Smith’s story is a testament to the power of compassion, advocacy, and lifelong commitment to justice. From policy to personal support, her legacy continues to inspire and transform communities.

From the halls of the University of Minnesota to the heart of Des Moines, Matthea Little Smith has spent her life uplifting others, especially women and families facing trauma, homelessness, and mental illness.

Though she began her academic journey as a mathematics major, Matthea’s true calling emerged far beyond the classroom. For over 15 years, she was deeply involved in the Battered Women’s Movement, serving as a shelter advocate, legislative educator, and board member. She also worked as a case manager for women transitioning out of homelessness and abuse, helping them rebuild their lives with dignity, support, and hope.

When Hurricane Katrina displaced thousands of families, Matthea led the development of an innovative crisis response program in Minneapolis–St. Paul. Her model—combining emergency aid, case management, and connection to community resources—successfully supported 90% of the displaced African American families arriving in the region.

Matthea’s commitment to equity also extended into politics. A longtime member of the NAACP in both Minneapolis and Des Moines, she made history as campaign manager for Neva Walker, the first African American woman elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. Matthea also held leadership positions within the Minnesota Democratic-Farm-Labor Party, served as a three-time national delegate, and helped shape public policy at every level.

In 2011, she retired from her role as Director of African American Outreach for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota, where she led stigma-reduction efforts across African American communities. She worked in churches, schools, and community centers, educating families and training parents of children with mental health challenges.

As a certified Technology of Participation (ToP) facilitator, Matthea continues to create space for community dialogue, problem-solving, and collaborative planning. Even in retirement, she remains deeply engaged: after relocating to Des Moines, she joined NAMI Greater Des Moines (now part of NAMI Polk County), trained as a Peer and Family Peer Support Specialist, and began facilitating local support groups and workshops.

Today, Matthea serves on the Board of Directors for Oakridge Neighborhood as a resident representative living at Silver Oaks, our 55+ community.

Whether teaching in classrooms, speaking in correctional facilities, or ministering at Corinthian Baptist Church, Matthea’s influence has been profound and far-reaching. Her life is a testament to compassion, courage, and community.

Matthea’s passion for service has supported countless families across the Midwest and right here in Central Iowa. To join her in making in impact for our Oakridge Neighborhood community, click here.

 

Oakridge Neighborhood is pleased to introduce Leonard “Lenny” Bell as Vice President – Youth and Education Programs.

Lenny brings more than two decades of leadership in education, youth development, and community engagement. He is a writer, educator, and community strategist known for designing youth centered programs that integrate academic achievement, creative expression, and personal development. His leadership approach is relationship driven and systems aware, grounded in the belief that young people thrive when they are supported holistically.

Prior to joining Oakridge Neighborhood, Lenny held leadership, teaching, and consulting roles across K-12, higher ed, and nonprofit organizations throughout Iowa. He has worked extensively with first generation students, young men of color, and emerging leaders, developing pathways that connect education to purpose, voice, and long- term opportunities. His work emphasizes mentorship, culturally responsive practice, and sustainable systems that strengthen both youth outcomes and organizational capacity.

Bell will oversee a staff of 20, serving close to 400 students in Central Iowa taking part in services such as afterschool programming, summer learning, Oak Futures Employment, and more.

He succeeds Vernon Johnson, who retired from his position in 2025.