Community Changemaker

We would like to honor a person who gives back to their community.

This is a person who gives without expectation of compensation. A person who does what’s right, not just what’s popular. A person who doesn’t seek the spotlight, but instead seeks to enrich the lives of others. 

Please scroll down for nomination information.

Kevin K. Cross

In October 2017, the D.C. community tragically lost Kevin Cross, a friend, father, brother, son and colleague. Kevin was a much beloved member of the National Cannabis Festival family. He was the kind of person who would give you his last dollar and would take the time to help even when he really didn't have the time to spare. Kevin was a rare kind of person for whom ego played no role. He epitomized the spirit of the best of Washington, D.C. — knowledgeable, caring and always willing to lend a hand. He was truly an unsung hero.

Through this award, we hope to honor Kevin’s legacy and the bright light he brought to the world through his kindness and selflessness.

Past Recipients

2018 - Minna Nilanont, community activist and owner of Hemp Kettle Tea Company

2019 - Flex Mathews, Musician and founder of the Handsome Grandson Project

2021 - Losia Nyankale, Founder, #growwithLisa and Executive Director, Maryland NORML

2022 - Gary Chambers, Activist

2023 - Marijuana Justice Coalition

Prize Package

• $1,000 cash prize to assist with further work to benefit the community

• Featured interview article on the festival website

To nominate a community member, please complete the form in the link below by March 30, 2024. Tell us about your nominee, their work in the community and the values that they champion in 1,000 words or less. Testimonials from additional friends/colleagues/family members are appreciated. Supplemental materials (photos, videos, links to articles, etc.) are welcome, but not required. The winner will be notified one week before NCF and will be invited to join us at the festival to receive the award on the main stage.