Celebrating Matthew Mitchell
Recognizing Black History Month
As we recognize Black History Month, we are highlighting Matthew Mitchell, a leader whose work continues a long tradition of Black leadership rooted in family, community care, and collective responsibility. As a Fatherhood Coordinator with Denver County Human Services, Matthew has dedicated his career to strengthening families by supporting parents, particularly fathers, through some of life’s most challenging moments.
Matthew is often described as the backbone of Denver County Human Services’ fatherhood program. In just the past few years, he has served thousands of families across Metro Denver, meeting parents in person to offer resources, guidance, and stability. His work is hands-on and deeply relational, grounded in trust, consistency, and an unwavering belief in families’ ability to thrive when given the right support.
“Simply put, Matthew keeps families together and keeps children at the heart of his work.”
— Colleague and nominator
Matthew’s approach reflects a deep commitment to community-centered solutions. Through strong partnerships and a vast network of connections, he has helped fathers and families access employment opportunities, housing supports, and substance use services. His work consistently centers on the well-being of children while addressing the broader realities families face.
A strong advocate for responsible co-parenting, Matthew promotes leadership among fathers and works intentionally with families in communities historically excluded from access and opportunities. Through his facilitation of Nurturing Dads and Partners (NDAP) cohorts, he supports fathers navigating unemployment, housing instability, incarceration, and language barriers, including Spanish-speaking fathers seeking tools to be more present and engaged in their children’s lives.
Matthew routinely partners with a variety of organizations across the metro area– including recovery programs, treatment facilities, correctional facilities, and community-based groups - to promote the importance of parenting and healthy parent-child relationships. He often facilitates multiple cohorts at once and regularly works evenings and weekends to ensure families can access support when they need it.
Colleagues describe Matthew as someone who does not shy away from barriers. Whether supporting a single father experiencing homelessness or helping families navigate high-stress and complex situations, he brings persistence, empathy, and practical solutions to every interaction. His leadership has helped families build stronger co-parenting relationships and create more stable, nurturing environments for their children.
Learn more about 150/250 Celebrating Early Childhood Champions