Steve Roberson to receive legacy award at newspaper fundraiser

Steve Roberson will receive the Patriot Legacy Award at the Downey Foundation for Independent Journalism’s second annual Press Affair fundraiser on Aug. 21. Roberson is being recognized for his longtime support of the Downey Patriot and local journalism. Photo by Eric Pierce

DOWNEY — Longtime community leader and businessman Steve Roberson will be honored for his support of local journalism during the Downey Foundation for Independent Journalism’s second annual Press Affair fundraiser Aug. 21.

Roberson will receive the Patriot Legacy Award during the black-tie optional event at the Azar Event Center in Santa Fe Springs. The fundraiser begins at 6 p.m., with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit foundation that supports the Downey Patriot.

“Local journalism matters because the Downey Patriot covers the people, institutions and issues that larger newspapers often overlook,” Roberson said. “We need to support the Patriot and ensure it remains a strong voice for our community. Once a local newspaper disappears, it is almost impossible to bring it back. If we lose the Patriot, it may be gone for good.”

Roberson has been a prominent figure in Downey’s business and civic communities for decades. A longtime real estate broker, he has held leadership positions with organizations including the Downey Association of Realtors and Kiwanis and has supported local schools, youth programs and charitable organizations.

In 2016, Roberson became the first recipient of Downey’s Mayor’s Distinguished Citizen/Business Award. At the time, he was recognized for his involvement with the Downey YMCA, Downey Chamber of Commerce, Downey Second Century Foundation, The Arc Los Angeles and Orange Counties and the Kiwanis Foundation.

His past honors have also included being named Downey Association of Realtors Broker of the Year three times and Downey Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year twice. He has received the YMCA’s Red Triangle Award, its highest honor, as well as the Kiwanis George F. Hixson Fellowship Award.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $15,000. Table sponsorships are available for $1,250 through July 31 and include 10 tickets. Individual tickets are $150, with presale tickets available for $125 through July 31.

The Azar Event Center is located at 12215 Slauson Ave. in Santa Fe Springs. For more information, email jennifer@dfij.org or call (562) 904-3668.