On Thursday, September 16th at noon, Real Change will celebrate 27 years of journalism, advocacy, and low-barrier work opportunities with a live keynote event on Zoom and awards for local journalists, vendors, and activists.

David Delgado, of REACH, will deliver the keynote address, speaking about crisis response in Seattle, outreach to unhoused neighbors, and his over 21 years of experience in human services here. Local comedian Brett Hamil will host the event, and activists, volunteers, and vendors will be honored for their work.

Dee Powers, a local activist, will be awarded the 2021 Change Agent award. Powers runs the Waystation, a mutual aid group supporting vehicle residents and people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Powers receives this award for their bold advocacy, and dedication to supporting the material needs of their community.

Each year, our community nominates outstanding individuals who represent our mission for the Vendor of the Year award. The winners are voted on by their peers, and awards are announced at the anniversary event.

All week from Sept. 13th – 17th, videos celebrating vendors, volunteers, and community members will be shared on social media. Follow along for chances to win prizes and more on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @RealChangeNews.

“This is my job because social security only goes so far,” says longtime vendor Anitra Freeman. “I’ve been into activism with Real Change and I started thinking of selling the paper as street activism.” Freeman is an active vendor.