Dee Atkins, Chief of Community Engagement and Equity, Thresholds

Where are you from? 

I am from Chicago. I was born and raised in the Lawndale and Austin communities. I’m currently a Beverly resident.

What led you to your current organization? 

I have always been passionate about community-centered work and creating opportunities that uplift diverse populations. After spending more than 15 years in the corporate sector I felt a deep, personal calling to drive impact more directly. 

Transitioning to the nonprofit space allowed me to align my professional expertise with my values of equity and empowerment. Thresholds presented the perfect opportunity offering the ability for me to shape strategy, build community partnerships, and expand mental health resources—particularly within Black and Brown communities. It was exactly the role I had been searching for, where I could bring both my leadership experience and passion for systemic change to the forefront.

What do you hope to accomplish as a member of CSAC? 

I hope to be a strong advocate for health equity, offering input that ensures research and outcomes are genuinely reflective of the diverse communities we aim to serve. As a representative of Thresholds, I am committed to advancing our mission as we assist those with severe mental illnesses and substance use conditions. This includes eliminating health disparities. I also want to contribute to research and studies that lead to effective, culturally responsive interventions that make certain access to quality healthcare is not determined by where someone lives or their background. By amplifying community voices and bridging gaps between research, policy, and lived experience, I hope to drive meaningful change that improves health outcomes for all.

What are some issues in your community you hope to resolve? 

I believe that everyone, regardless of their zip code, deserves access to nutritious food, quality medical care, and physicians who genuinely prioritize their well-being. Too many neighborhoods in Chicago, particularly in Black and Brown communities, lack full-service grocery stores or have limited access to fresh, healthy food options. Food insecurity isn’t just about hunger—it’s about long-term health outcomes, chronic disease prevention, and overall quality of life.

There is also a deep-seated mistrust of the healthcare system, especially among communities of color. Many people avoid going to the doctor because they feel unseen, unheard, or dismissed—especially when their healthcare provider does not look like them or understand their lived experiences. This gap in culturally competent care leads to delayed diagnoses, unmanaged chronic conditions, and overall poorer health outcomes. As an advocate for change, I hope to bring awareness to these issues, pushing for policies that increase access to healthcare and food resources, and encouraging individuals to seek medical care despite these barriers.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you? 

One thing that might surprise people is that I’m a runner who has covered many corners of our great city. Since 2015, I’ve participated in more than 30 races, including 5 half-marathons.