meet your allies

James Earl was born in Oak Harbor, Washington, but spent much of his early life in East Central Minnesota, where he graduated from East Central High School. In 2011, he moved to Cheney, Washington, and later settled in Spokane in 2017.

A U.S. Air Force veteran, James served as an Aircraft Metals Technology specialist, honing his skills as a machinist and welder. After his service, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering from Eastern Washington University in 2016.

James’s career has taken him through a wide range of roles, working as a security guard in Airway Heights, making outbound survey calls, and serving as a Housing Peer at Frontier Behavioral Health and an Outpatient Peer.

James occasionally creates sidewalk chalk art around Spokane, using public spaces to spread positivity and hope. One of his most meaningful efforts takes place on the Monroe Street Bridge, where he chalks affirmations designed to offer encouragement to those in crisis. He once chalked a story along the bridge rails that guided someone to the end of the bridge, instead of the other option. It is a powerful reminder of the impact of small gestures. James also enjoys drawing large, vibrant flowers and butterflies in Riverfront Park, using art as a gentle way to connect with others.

He is a proud father of three boys and a reluctant but loving cat owner of two, though he jokes that “cats and kids are four-letter words.”

Having experienced homelessness firsthand, James carries a deep sense of empathy that fuels everything he does. His past has shaped a powerful commitment to lifting others up, especially those navigating hardship or feeling unseen. Whether through volunteering, offering peer support, or simply showing up with compassion, 

James is determined to be the kind of person he once needed. He believes strongly in the power of shared experience and mutual learning, because, as he says:

"We're all smarter than someone at something, not everything."