Valarie Dowell, BA, Health and Human Services and Community Health Worker has been a strong advocate, activist, and frontline worker for the most despaired, homeless, vulnerable, and special population of people for over 20 years. She marches throughout the United States for human rights, healthcare rights, policy changes, quality healthcare and housing for individuals experiencing homelessness and returning home citizens from prison or jails. She knows firsthand based on her personal experiences with addiction, homelessness, incarceration, and mental health. Her efforts received National recognition in 2013 when she was presented with The MLK Volunteer Award signed by then President Barack Obama. On May 19, 2022, Valarie received national recognition at the National Healthcare for the Homeless Council Conference for the Ellen Dailey Consumer Advocate Award by the National Consumer Advisory Board.