My work with Real Change reflects two passions that have shaped my career: journalism and community advocacy. Before transitioning into corporate and branded content, I spent five years working in local news, an experience that reinforced my belief in the importance of independent journalism and the role it plays in elevating underrepresented voices.

As a longtime volunteer and advocate for homelessness awareness, I have been proud to support Real Change's mission of empowering vendors and creating pathways to economic opportunity.

In recognition of this work, I was honored as Real Change's 2020 Volunteer of the Year. As Real Change noted, "2020 Volunteer of the Year Juan Montes shares how he first got involved with Real Change, how his family inspires him to volunteer, and the way vendors have impacted his life. Thank you, Juan, for your hours of volunteer work, support, and for being a part of our community." Through both my storytelling and volunteer efforts, I remain committed to using media as a tool to foster understanding, advocate for vulnerable communities, and help tell stories that deserve to be heard.