Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) celebrated its 19th Annual Awards Gala on April 9, by recognizing the resilience of the homeless women and children they serve and honoring outstanding community champions throughout the state of California.

The event, hosted by author, philanthropist and co-host of The Real Loni Love, highlighted the empowerment of all women. This year’s theme, “She is…” lifted up the beauty that resides in each woman, regardless of their past circumstances.

The challenges of the past year have shown the need to work in collaboration, and support members of the community. The “She is..” gala applauded the work of the many champions who make daily contributions to society and commended these heroes for their work.

In light of the accomplishments throughout their 19-year history, Time for Change Foundation has continued to live out its mission in ending homelessness for women and their children. What started with humble beginnings as a 6-bed shelter has grown into a vital part of the community, an organization positively impacting the lives of over 1,700 women in helping them reach self-sufficiency and reuniting 303 children from foster care with their moms. TFCF’s expansion throughout the Bay Area with their Brighter Futures shelter is extending greater support for women who are seeking to reunify with their children.

“The work being done by Time for Change quite literally changes lives every day. And what’s so special about Time for Change is that when they take someone on, they invest in the person for the long term — making sure that they have both the skills and the resources to be self-sufficient,” said host Loni Love.

The “She is…” gala also highlighted women’s successes in transitioning to self-sufficiency, even in the midst of a global pandemic, and an inspiring, narrated painting of one of their client’s journey by artists Russell Craig and Mahogany L. Browne.

Honorees included California Wellness Foundation, the Visionary Leadership Award; Clay Counseling Solutions, Mental Health Champion Award; Dr. Guillermo Valenzuela, Community Health Champion Award; California Criminal Justice Funders Group, Courageous Philanthropy Award; Erin Brinker, Community Champion Award; Jan Robinson Flint & Nourbese Flint with the Dynamic Duo Award, and Linda Hart with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award. The inaugural Nancy Varner Angel Award was presented to Nancy Negrette in honor of Nancy Varner’s legacy in the inland region.

Time for Change Foundation empowers disenfranchised, low-income individuals and families by building leadership through evidence-based programs and housing to create self-sufficiency and thriving communities. To see how you can help make a difference visit  www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org.