Steph named 2020 Woman of the Year

Steph Johnson has been named 2020 Woman of the Year by Assemblymember Todd Gloria for the 78th District. Although the event at the state capital was postponed due to the coronavirus, Johnson felt an immense sense of joy and gratitude in joining the long list of amazing women who've been honored before her.

The recognition is made of phenomenal women who live, work, volunteer, or attend school in the 78th Assembly District. These are the women we see on the front lines of issues in our community, the women who dedicate their time to bettering District 78. The ones who help watch their district prosper and grow.

The soulful Jazz musician saw a way to combine two passions close to her heart: music and humanitarianism.

"Through the Voices of Our City Choir, I have found my purpose," Johnson says. "Combining my love of music and compassion for people, I formed Voices of Our City 4 years ago -- a choir for people experiencing homelessness. Voices of Our City is more than a singing group that offers fellowship and a respite from life on the streets. The choir is a 501(c)(3) with more than 250 members. During and after weekly choir practice, members are counseled and directed to locally available services".

Johnson notes, "I am allowed the daily freedom to love and empower the people around me to heal, recover and thrive. It is a dream come true for my staff, volunteers, board of directors and I that we can TRULY help an individual suffering homelessness. When hope returns, anything is possible."

***

“I am honored to name Steph Johnson the Woman of the Year for the 78th Assembly District. Voices of Our City, the innovative program Steph created to harness the power of music to change lives, gives homeless men and women hope and a chance to connect with others. The choir not only provides an outlet for unsheltered San Diegans to participate in the uplifting benefits of music and creativity, but also serves as an access point to services. Voices of Our City has provided the perfect vehicle for dozens of choir members to get off the street and into permanent housing.” Todd Gloria, Assemblymember District 78