Solid Ground celebrated more than 50 years of supporting individuals facing poverty at its annual gala on May 28, 2025, in Seattle. The event brought together more than 250 community members to honor personal pathways to stability and opportunity. Attendees enjoyed poetry, photography, jazz, and inspiring speeches, including remarks from CEO Shalimar Gonzales. She highlighted the urgent challenges posed by national policies threatening vulnerable communities and the importance of solidarity in overcoming such obstacles.

The gala featured personal stories from participants like Florene Jimerson, who shared her journey from homelessness to stability, aided by Solid Ground’s programs. Lyssa Bastet, a poet and mother, recounted her struggles while living in a shelter and the hope she found through the support of Solid Ground. They emphasized the critical role of community in providing the resources necessary for transformation.

Erin Jones, an educator, concluded the event by advocating for the recognition of every individual’s value and the need for preventative support systems, reinforcing Solid Ground’s commitment to helping people before they reach crisis points. The evening underscored the importance of collective action and support in addressing poverty and fostering resilience.

A woman in a dark suit jacket stands at a podium with a sign that reads "Solid Ground."
A woman in a dark suit jacket stands at a podium with a sign that reads "Solid Ground." Posts: Celebrating pathways built, and those who travel them
A woman with long silver hair stands at a microphone.
A woman with long silver hair stands at a microphone. Posts: Celebrating pathways built, and those who travel them
A young woman in a brown suit smiles and leans against a round table in a convention center lobby.
A young woman in a brown suit smiles and leans against a round table in a convention center lobby. Posts: Celebrating pathways built, and those who travel them
A woman in a red dress and long teal dreadlocks speaks at a podium on a stage.
A woman in a red dress and long teal dreadlocks speaks at a podium on a stage. Posts: Celebrating pathways built, and those who travel them
Woman with an afro wearing white shirt and dark jacket gestures as she speaks at a podium on a stage.
Woman with an afro wearing white shirt and dark jacket gestures as she speaks at a podium on a stage. Posts: Celebrating pathways built, and those who travel them
The Seattle Times logo with black lettering
The Seattle Times logo with black lettering Posts: Three takeaways from the Social Justice Salon , Celebrating pathways built, and those who travel them
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