Honoring local changemakers
Bellevue Fire Foundation
Firefighters are vital community partners, standing ready to risk their lives to protect others. The Bellevue Fire Foundation provides critical support for the Bellevue Fire Department, ensuring that firefighters and paramedics have the resources they need to protect the community. From equipment and training to community programs, the Foundation provides additional funding that complements the city's budget.
Firefighter Mike Stoves, of Bellevue Station 7 Ladder 107 (SE 8th near I-405), exemplifies the dedication and impact of the Foundation's work. As a leader in water rescue and auto extrication, Mike has worked to enhance safety standards and create innovative training programs. His fundraising efforts for rescue jet skis and his role as a mentor to his peers highlight the real difference that the Bellevue Fire Foundation makes in the community.
Community engagement and fostering a strong connection between the fire department and residents are at the heart of the Bellevue Fire Foundation's mission. The Foundation has engaged over 7,000 citizens at community events, raising awareness about emergency preparedness and providing educational materials.
In addition to community preparedness, the Foundation supports firefighters by addressing professional development, mental health, and overall well-being. Past support has included funding for the Company Officer Leadership Academy, where over 24 newly promoted officers received critical training in leadership and incident management skills; for a mental health app accessible to all 220 firefighters 24/7, offering essential support for job-related stress; and ballistic vests and helmets to ensure firefighter safety during high-risk situations.
The Bellevue Fire Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and preparedness of the Bellevue community. Providing essential resources, the Foundation empowers the Bellevue Fire Department to tackle modern-day challenges with confidence and resilience. Currently, the Foundation is raising funds for thermal imaging cameras and wireless headsets—life-saving tools that enable firefighters to see through smoke, locate victims more quickly, and communicate effectively during emergencies.
Seattle Pride
Seattle Pride is a cornerstone organization offering hope, unity, connection, and advocacy for Seattle’s LGBTQIA2S+ community. With a vision to achieve equal human rights throughout the region and the world, Seattle Pride has been a driving force in the fight for visibility and equality. The organization also knows how to throw a great party.
The journey began in 1974 when David Neth led a small group of queer community activists to organize Seattle’s first “Gay Pride Week.” This bold step aimed to bring the LGBTQIA+ community out of the shadows. There were other vital events, including panel discussions and a historic rally in Pioneer Square. Neth’s leadership was pivotal in shaping the legacy of activism and optimism that lives in the heart of Seattle’s Pride celebrations.
The Seattle Pride Parade has grown to become the state’s largest parade and one of the largest Pride parades nationally. As Neth recalls, the goal was simple yet revolutionary: “We wanted to be seen—making the invisible visible.” This mission was not just about celebration; it was a powerful show of presence and joy.
Fifty years later, Neth remains a driving force behind Seattle Pride. In 2024, he served as a grand marshal for the 50th anniversary of the Seattle Pride Parade, riding his bicycle in the same outfit he wore in 1974. His presence was a powerful reminder of the movement’s progress and a call to continue the march toward equality. During LGBTQIA2S+ History Month, Neth was also the keynote speaker at Seattle Pride’s unveiling of the newest Trail to Treasure Wayside Historical Marker in Pioneer Square, cementing his place in Seattle’s LGBTQIA2S+ history.
Neth's impact extends far beyond the past. Today, he remains a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ visibility and political engagement, particularly among younger generations.
In addition to organizing the annual Seattle Pride Parade drawing 300,000 attendees, and the beloved Seattle Pride in the Park family celebration, Seattle Pride now co-hosts a youth internship program. The organization is planning for its future by investing in the next generation of community leaders.
Seattle Fire Foundation
The Seattle Fire Foundation, a dedicated nonprofit organization, bolsters the Seattle Fire Department’s (SFD) resources through impactful fundraising activities, directly supporting firefighters who are putting their lives on the line. The Foundation’s efforts are crucial to enabling the department to fulfill its mission of saving lives through emergency medical services, fire prevention, and rescue response, including along Seattle’s extensive 200 miles of shorelines. One of those securing our shoreline is Seattle firefighter Dalen Roesijadi, a member of the Surface Water Rescue Swimmer Program. Since the program’s inception in 2017, Roesijadi’s leadership and passion for water rescue have been evident. As a swimmer, instructor, and program administrator, Roesijadi continually improves his skills. He recently earned his Free Diver Instructor Certification to expand SFD's training and rescue capabilities. His dedication exemplifies the department’s pursuit of excellence.
In 2023 alone, Seattle Fire responded to an astounding 111,319 emergency calls, including 78 water rescue dispatches. The department's 59 rescue swimmers, including Dalen, play a crucial role in these life-saving operations, demonstrating the importance of specialized training and preparedness.
Thanks to the unwavering support of the Seattle Fire Foundation, the Seattle Fire Department is well-equipped to face modern challenges. The foundation ensures that the department can continue to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, safeguarding the community with genuine dedication and expertise.
Bellevue Botanical
The Bellevue Botanical Garden Society, the main partner of the Bellevue Botanical Garden, is a vibrant oasis that brings together nature lovers, horticulture enthusiasts, and community members to advance Northwest horticultural knowledge and preserve the natural beauty of the local ecology. The 53-acre garden, nestled in the heart of Bellevue, Washington, is a testament to the power of community involvement and education.
One of the Society's most dedicated volunteers is Elaine White, who has been contributing her time and skills for over 14 years. Elaine's versatility as a volunteer has allowed her to support a wide range of activities, from administrative tasks to gardening and event support. Her long-term dedication makes her an invaluable member of the volunteer team, fostering community engagement and supporting the growth of the Society's programs.
Elaine beautifully sums up her experience, saying, "Life comes down to connecting with life forms. At Bellevue Botanical Garden and the associated Society, I have connected with both plants and people. Conservation and education are common values we share, and that adds a rich layer to my life, just like a garden thrives with a thick blanket of organic matter for the plants in that garden. I've grown where I've been planted!”
The Garden welcomes over 400,000 visitors annually, offering a serene escape and a place to learn about horticulture and conservation. In 2024 alone, education programs at the garden have attracted over 5,200 attendees, both children and adults. Volunteers contribute thousands of hours maintaining and enhancing the beautiful space.
Through its dedication to education and community involvement, the Bellevue Botanical Garden Society remains a cherished part of the Bellevue community, fostering the love of nature and commitment to preserving the natural environment.
Redmond Fire Department
Under Mayor Angela Birney's visionary leadership, the City of Redmond is setting new standards for environmental sustainability in municipal operations. Mayor Birney's call to reduce environmental impact has led to groundbreaking achievements across multiple city departments, including the Redmond Fire Department securing Washington state's first all-electric fire engine. This milestone acquisition is just one example of how public safety and environmental responsibility can work harmoniously together to positively impact an entire city.
The Redmond Fire Department has embraced Mayor Birney's commitment to sustainability while remaining dedicated to protecting lives and property through education, prevention, disaster preparedness, and rapid emergency response. Serving a 45-square-mile area, including the City of Redmond and unincorporated King County within King County Fire District 34, the department exemplifies how essential services can adapt to meet environmental goals without compromising their core mission.
At the helm of the Redmond Fire Department is Fire Chief Adrian Sheppard. Since his appointment in February 2021, Chief Sheppard has worked closely with Mayor Birney to advance public safety and environmental sustainability. This collaborative approach from the mayor and city leaders across municipal departments proves that transitioning to sustainable operations can enhance service to the community.
Rainier Beach Action Coalition
The Rainier Beach Action Coalition (RBAC) is a beacon of hope and empowerment in Seattle’s Southend community. It is dedicated to fostering a thriving neighborhood with equitable access to economic opportunity, public safety, healthy food, and education. Through its innovative programs, RBAC has become a cornerstone for emerging young adults, providing year-round employment opportunities that pave the way for bright futures.
One of the shining stars of RBAC is Kerry White, the Director of Food Justice and Innovation. Kerry's journey shows how aligning professional skills with personal values leads to meaningful change. Growing up in West Seattle, Kerry was deeply rooted in the community, participating in competitive swimming and other sports at Rainier Beach High School. Her passion for community engagement blossomed during her undergraduate years at Central Washington University, where she immersed herself in the agricultural program. After earning her degree, Kerry transitioned into culinary arts, specializing in classical French training. With extensive experience managing food systems and leading large-scale projects, she sought work that matched her dreams.
Kerry's path led her to RBAC, where she began as the Food Hub and Farm Stand Manager. Now, as the Director of Food Justice and Innovation, within the Four Branches, Four Colors initiative—a series emphasizing RBAC’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of the neighborhood—Kerry oversees Healthy Food for a Healthy Industry. Through her work, she brings people together, fosters connections, and offers a system that prioritizes justice and equity. She believes in a leadership model where everyone has a seat at the table.
RBAC's impact extends beyond food justice. In the third quarter of 2024, 2,929 people turned to RBAC's Farm Stand for fresh, culturally relevant produce. The organization also provided hundreds of hours of support to local farmers of color. RBAC's community-led safety programs have significantly improved morale in the neighborhood, reducing perceptions of crime and heavy policing, as evidenced by a study conducted by George Mason University's Criminology Department. Additionally, RBAC's efforts led to the adoption of the Priority Hire ordinance in 2015, ensuring that city public works construction projects hire residents from economically distressed areas.
Through its dedication to justice, equity, and community empowerment, the Rainier Beach Action Coalition continues to make a profound impact, fostering optimism that the vibrant and inclusive neighborhood has a bright future.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound
Imagine a world where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. This is the vision that drives Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound. The organization is dedicated to fostering meaningful, one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite potential in young people. By pairing children, often referred to as "Littles," with caring adult mentors, known as "Bigs," Big Brothers Big Sisters creates supportive relationships that help children thrive.
As the President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, Alonda Williams lives and leads with a deep commitment to empowering young people through mentorship. Since stepping into her role, she has worked to strengthen the community by expanding mentorship programs, building impactful partnerships, and advocating for equity and opportunity for all youth. William’s leadership is driven by the belief that every young person deserves a champion. In her recent TEDx talk, she shared her personal journey and called for action, emphasizing the power of human connection. She believes, "We are all capable of showing up for someone—even when we feel uncertain.”
William’s message resonates, reminding us that showing up with compassion can change lives. Since joining Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, she has led initiatives to expand the organization’s capacity, reach, and impact. Her leadership has focused on improving graduation rates, career paths, and mental health outcomes. She has also worked on increasing mentor recruitment, especially within communities historically underrepresented in mentoring programs. In William’s words, “Mentorship is about believing in someone’s potential before they see it in themselves. It’s about creating a world where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to dream big.” Through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to youth empowerment, Alonda Williams is shaping a more inclusive and hopeful future—one mentoring relationship at a time.
The Vera Project
Speaking to the connections she has made at The Vera Project, Meilee Riddle (18) says, "There are so many. I feel like there's like different categories you can break into. It's just so lovely to be able to meet people that I wouldn't meet in my typical circles at school or anything. Also, the connection with all of the mentors here, people who are so dedicated to continuing my education within this industry. I've had so many awesome opportunities throughout festivals and shows, and I've been able to network myself and like starting to make a business for myself as I become an adult. And I think that's really incredible.
What I love about [doing outreach] is I get to talk to so many different people, and you hear just a snippet of their stories, you get to connect with them and invite them into this space and show them all the different things that they would love here. The Vera Project offers a space for everybody to be themselves and thrive creatively."
The Vera Project is a music and arts nonprofit dedicated to fostering a participatory creative culture through popular music concerts, arts programs, experiential learning, and volunteer leadership opportunities. The Vera Project has become a cornerstone for young creatives, offering a space where they can explore their passions and develop their skills.
As a youth-led arts organization and community, The Vera Project has had the distinct privilege of fostering the development of countless incredible changemakers throughout the last 23 years. Though all of their work is intentionally collaborative, one of their youth house managers, committee chairs, filmmakers, and writers, Meilee Riddle, has made a profound impact on the organization and participants. Meilee's journey with The Vera Project began at the tender age of four when she attended her first live music experience in the VERA Main Showroom at the Seattle Center with her parents. As a teenager, Meilee returned to The Vera Project with friends to see one of her favorite bands, Covet. Over the next two and a half years, Meilee seized every opportunity to contribute to The Vera Project community. She became the youngest-ever show House Manager at age 16, served as Chair to core member committees, and now works as a Production Lead, organizing and leading the crew for daily shows at both the Seattle Center and Black Lodge.
The Vera Project annually offers over 300 concerts, 120 classes, 950 paid work opportunities for youth, 1,800 experiential learning opportunities in creative industries, and hundreds of hours of event space usage for nonprofit and mutual aid groups. On average, VERA hosts at least three youth-driven community events and programs every single day of the year, from popular music concerts to creative workforce training opportunities. The organization puts more systemically oppressed youth on its four stages than any other venue in King County, hosting the first performance opportunities for dozens of prominent musicians.
Through its dedication to fostering a participatory creative culture, The Vera Project continues to make a profound impact on the Seattle community, empowering young people to explore their passions and develop their skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center
In the heart of Seattle's Discovery Park stands the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, a beacon of hope and renewal for Native Americans in the Puget Sound region. Founded in 1970 by the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation (UIATF), this cultural center has become a focal point for the renewal and regeneration of indigenous heritage and community.
UIATF’s story began with a bold act of courage led by Bernie Whitebear and a group of Northwest Native Americans and their supporters. They occupied Fort Lawton, reclaiming a land base for urban Indians living in and around Seattle. This act of resilience and determination laid the foundation for what would become a thriving cultural and social services organization.
Today, UIATF continues to honor its mission by providing educational, cultural, and social services that reconnect indigenous people to their heritage. The Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center serves as a home for these efforts, offering a space where Native Americans can gather, celebrate, and strengthen their sense of belonging.
Shameka Gagnier honors the organization’s mission and vision by tirelessly dedicating themself to reconnecting Indigenous people with their heritage and fostering a sense of belonging and significance. Gagnier carries diverse bloodlines, with roots in the Purépecha, Ecuador, and Colombia, and works to bridge these intersections in ways that honor cultural resilience and collective healing.
As a multimedia artist, Gagnier excels in wood carving, metalsmithing, printmaking, performance art, music-making, and gardening, creating spaces where art and community unite. Their work with the Black Well Red Thread Collective brings transformative multimedia installations to life, always incorporating community voices and cultural narratives.
In addition to their artistry, Gagnier is a dedicated environmentalist and steward of the land. They contribute their skills and energy to maintaining the grounds of the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, including significant work in the medicine garden. From building walkways to nurturing the land, Gagnier ensures that the environment embodies the strength and beauty of the community. Their efforts support the cultural and spiritual practices of those who visit, reinforcing the deep connection between land, culture, and identity.
One of the center's most impactful programs, the Uŋčí Makhá Home Visiting program, has grown significantly under the leadership of CEO Mike Tulee. Since 2016, the program has expanded from serving 11 individual participants to 69 families within the Native American and Pacific Islander communities. This growth reflects UIATF's commitment to supporting families and fostering a strong, interconnected community.
In 2025, UIATF will break ground on the United Indians of All Tribes Northwest Coast Canoe Center, an extension of the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center. This new facility will further the organization's mission to celebrate and preserve cultural heritage and traditions, bringing greater recognition to the Native American community.
Through its dedication to cultural resilience and community empowerment, the United Indians of All Tribes Northwest continues to make a profound impact, ensuring that the rich heritage and traditions of Native Americans are honored and preserved for future generations.
Seattle Parks Foundation
Robert has had a profound impact on the cultural life of the Central District in Seattle, helping create programs and community facilities such as Black Arts West, Langston Hughes Theater, Medgar Evers Pool, Madrona Dance Studio (Spectrum Dance Studio), and Seattle Veterans program (SEA/VETS). He volunteered to support the renovation of Garfield High School and the creation of the Quincy Jones Performance Center and has been working on the transformation of Garfield Park for over 15 years.
Located at the heart of the Central District, the Garfield Super Block (GSB) is the community’s central gathering place as well as a historical city-wide destination. Known to some as “Little City Hall,” the space pulsates with a rich history of events, people, and moments that continue to resonate today. The goal of the GSB Park and Promenade Renovation Project is to confirm and implement the unfinished renovation works of the 2005 GSB Master Plan. This includes site improvements to support the overall park and amenities use and activities, as well as the creation of a pathway that reflects the tremendous cultural diversity and rich history of the Central District. You can learn more about this transformational community project through the video here.
Seattle Parks Foundation (SPF) partners with the community to champion thriving and equitable parks and public spaces. Since their inception in 1999, they have supported over 300 park and public space projects in the region, celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. SPF believes in the power of partnership and acts as the bridge between community groups and public agencies to get park and public space projects underway, helping to navigate the long and often complex process.
As a fiscal sponsor, they support more than 100 grassroots community-led groups at any given time, providing hands-on support in strategy, advocacy, fundraising, communications, and finance. In addition to fundraising in support of community partner projects and internal initiatives, SPF advocates for equitable access to parks for all, leveraging over $1.2B in public funding to public space initiatives.
Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWa)
Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA), founded 39 years ago addresses the unique challenges faced by refugee and immigrant women and their families. Offering culturally and linguistically specific services in over 50 languages, ReWA provides housing, legal services, education, mental health care, and employment programs, reaching 4,400 clients annually. In a world where over 340 million women and girls are projected to live in extreme poverty by 2030, ReWA’s work is more critical than ever.
“Our mission is to empower women to reclaim their strength and build safer futures,” says Carlin Yoophum, Director of the Domestic Violence Program. With over 30 years at ReWA, Carlin has transformed the Domestic Violence Program into a vital resource for refugee and immigrant survivors. Her leadership has provided countless women with the tools to overcome crises, rebuild their lives, and thrive.
Under her guidance, the program has raised awareness, secured protective legislation, and developed robust community networks. These efforts culminated in national recognition, including the 2023 Classy Award for combating gender-based violence. A pivotal moment for Carlin was supporting a client ostracized by her community after fleeing abuse. Through ReWA’s advocacy, this client found safety and a new path forward, leading her to say, “Thank you for believing in me when everyone else turned their back on me.”
ReWA’s impact is powered by a dedicated team, many from the communities they serve. Carlin emphasizes, “This work is about listening, understanding, and advocating. Together, we create pathways to hope and healing.”
Meeting clients’ needs through an array of services—including DV advocacy, placing and keeping them in safe housing, giving them the tools to secure and advance in employment, and connecting them to other agencies—creates stability for entire families, from the earliest of learners to those building lives in the Puget Sound with their children and grandchildren.
Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area
Seattle’s Chinatown-International District (C-ID) is a vibrant cultural hub that has been a cornerstone for the community, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and economic opportunities. The Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA) has been instrumental in enhancing and promoting this neighborhood for over 30 years.
CIDBIA's mission is to maintain a clean and welcoming district while advocating for public safety and a healthy environment for businesses and the community. Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors, Chera Amlag, emphasizes the importance of the C-ID as a cultural and culinary destination that preserves the diverse cultures represented in the area. As a local business owner and co-founder of Hood Famous Café and Bar, Chera brings a unique perspective to the board, understanding the dynamic needs and strengths of the neighborhood.
One of CIDBIA's key initiatives is hosting food walk events, which draw hundreds of visitors to the neighborhood, encouraging them to explore new cuisines and engage with the community. These events not only promote small local businesses but also highlight the rich history of Seattle’s C-ID. In 2024, the CID Night Market attracted over 15,000 attendees, showcasing the district's vibrant atmosphere.
CIDBIA has also significantly increased its sanitation service hours, ensuring the district remains clean and inviting for all. From 2023 to 2024, the monthly sanitation service hours increased from an average of 180 hours to 325 hours. Additionally, CIDBIA hosted 12 CID Public Safety Community Forums in 2024, providing a platform for community members to voice their concerns and receive updates from city and organizational partners.
By prioritizing community engagement, public safety, and support for local businesses, CIDBIA continues to make the Chinatown-International District a vibrant and inviting neighborhood for all.
Learn more about Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area
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