Helping San Diego's unsheltered neighbors reconnect with hope and possibility through the healing power of music — Voices of Our City Choir

submitted by Steph Johnson, Voices of Our City Choir

based in San Diego, County of San Diego

Voices of Our City is an inspirational musical ensemble that has garnered plenty of headlines. The choir has been the focus of a documentary that aired nationally on PBS stations. The group has performed with the San Diego Symphony and opened a benefit concert at the historic Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles on a bill that featured Jason Mraz and founding members of the Doors. Most recently the choir auditioned for Season 15 of America’s Got Talent.

Steph Johnson turned the choir into a nonprofit and serves as both Executive Director and Creative Director. She was named the 2020 Woman of the Year by San Diego Assemblymember Todd Gloria:
“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.”