ABOUT US
Changing The Conversation Together (CTC, legally CTC Action) is dedicated to “deep canvassing” as a tool for building a more inclusive democracy and a progressive majority.
Deep canvassing—where we connect face-to-face with potential voters by sharing stories—is the most effective form of voter persuasion ever measured.
CTC Action is a political action committee (PAC) founded in 2017 to strengthen democracy by using deep canvassing—a highly personal, proven approach to voter engagement. We help people understand why their vote matters and overcome barriers to participation, especially in high-stakes elections. From a breakthrough congressional win in New York to nationally recognized work in Pennsylvania, CTC’s conversations consistently boost turnout, with voters we reach turning out 10–21 points higher than their neighbors.
Both our affiliated social welfare organization, CTC for Progress, and our PAC use this proven approach to impact voters, advancing voter participation and PAC supported candidates who promote democracy.
CTC is an independent, volunteer-run organization, not affiliated with any party. Our mission is to engage unlikely voters in authentic conversations in order to strengthen democracy and promote justice.
Our Approach
There’s no better way to connect with and understand people than having personal, two-way, face-to-face conversations. And there’s no better way to respond to the fear, anxiety, grief, and rage we feel about the state of the country than by joining others in collective action.
CTC’s goal is to build on and expand this promising work into other crucial battleground areas where we know these margins could make a difference between winning and losing crucial campaigns. In order to do so, we’re helping organizations train canvassers and launch their own deep canvassing programs.
In 2026, our PAC will be canvassing in key Congressional districts to empower voters and elect people who will stand up to Trump.
Learn more
Meet Our Team
CTC is guided by an organizing team of leaders and staff. The team meets regularly to evaluate, discuss results, and design strategies to help maintain, and grow this effort.
ADAM BARBANEL-FRIED
Director
Adam has over 20 years of union, community and political organizing experience in multiple cities and regions. His work has resulted in the building of good schools, development of affordable housing, and expansion of health care to thousands of low income and marginalized people. As part of his work, Adam has trained hundreds of leaders in relational organizing, organizational and leadership development, and deep canvassing.
TAMESH KEMRAJ
Community Organizer
Tamesh Kemraj is an organizer with over six years of experience in voter engagement, grassroots mobilization, and volunteer training. He has worked on campaigns across Pennsylvania, helping build teams grounded in care, consistency, and community trust.
Originally from Guyana, and now based in Philadelphia, Tamesh has coordinated grassroots teams, trained new organizers, and helped design voter contact programs that center deep listening and long-term relationship-building.
Tamesh is drawn to CTC’s commitment to building long-term, progressive power by investing in local organizers and campaigns that center on community, equity, and deep relationships not just for election cycles. He is passionate about confronting injustice, advancing immigrant justice, and building power with working-class communities.
ROBERT ALVARADO
Community Organizer
Robert Alvarado is an organizer with experience championing progressive causes through community engagement, education, and voter mobilization. Robert began deep canvassing in 2018, and as an organizer with CTC he brings his experience and passion for empowering vulnerable communities and connecting with people across differences. Prior to joining CTC, he was an educator at Planned Parenthood where he helped empower community members to access and advocate for healthcare resources. Originally from Los Angeles, Robert began organizing with the LA LGBT Center to advance LGBTQ+ justice and across Orange County to turn out the vote for Democrats. Now based in Philadelphia, in his free time you can find him walking around the city, meditating, and playing video or board games.
Robert manages CTC’s outreach call team and supports canvass logistics including volunteer placement. He looks forward to getting to know you and having fun out there on the canvass – the most rewarding part of the job!