DIRECTOR’S NOTE WHEN WE EMBARKED ON THIS JOURNEY to introduce an art-focused initiative to our 27-year-old vending program, we envisioned something that would not only support vendors’ livelihoods but also foster a sense of community and appreciation for creative expression. The results have surpassed JAMES KAY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR our wildest expectations. The integration of art into the vending program has breathed new life into both our program and the Santa Fe Art District. The impact on our vendors has been remarkable. Through the art program extension, many, like Lando Allen and Rea Brown, have discovered a new sense of purpose and fulfillment. Many have found solace, healing, and empowerment through their artistic endeavors. The program has provided a platform for selfexpression, allowing vendors to share their unique perspectives and experiences with the world. Equally inspiring is the response from the community. The Santa Fe Art District, a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, locals, and tourists alike, now buzzes with even more electric energy, attracting visitors who appreciate the rich tapestry of creativity that our vendors have to offer. The synergy between the art initiative and the vending program has sparked a renewed sense of interest and engagement from the public, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits both our vendors and the broader community. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all the vendors who have embraced this addition wholeheartedly. Your artistic contributions have not only beautified our office space and area, they have also served as a catalyst for change and connection. Your resilience and willingness to step out of your comfort zones have inspired us all. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the neighborhood artists, volunteers, and community members who have supported this initiative since its inception. Your commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant arts community has been instrumental in the success of this extension. As we move forward, I am filled with hope and anticipation for what the future holds for all of us. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey and making these ideas possible! ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, and Medium.com DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen Yvens Alex Saintil WRITERS John Alexander Michael Burkley Rea Brown WHAT WE DO The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We give our vendors a job and help them tell their stories; this creates a space for them to be part of a community again. Vendors purchase copies of the VOICE for 50 cents each at our distribution center. This money pays for a portion of our production costs. Vendors can buy as many papers as they want; they then sell those papers to the public for a suggested $2 donation. The difference in cost ($1.50) is theirs to keep. WHO WE ARE The Denver VOICE is a nonprofit that publishes a monthly street newspaper. Our vendors are men and women in the Denver metro area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,600 vendors to work. Our mission is to facilitate a dialogue addressing the roots of homelessness by telling stories of people whose lives are impacted by poverty and homelessness and to offer economic, educational, and empowerment opportunities for the impoverished community. We are an award-winning publication, a member of the International Network of Street Papers and the Colorado Press Association, and we abide by the Society of Professional Journalists code of ethics. Cassandria Carmouche Giles Clasen Robert Davis David Gordon Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Antonio Diaz Jennifer Seybold Julia Watson Cabal Yarne With the money they make selling the VOICE, vendors are able to pay for their basic needs. Our program provides vendors with an immediate income and a support group of dedicated staff members and volunteers. Vendors are independent contractors who receive no base pay. EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT editor@denvervoice.org VENDOR PROGRAM program@denvervoice.org • (720) 320-2155 ADVERTISING ads@denvervoice.org MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1931, Denver CO 80201 VENDOR OFFICE 989 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO 80204 OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE August 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US
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