The publication's content focuses on primarily social justice issues as they are framed by politics, music, art, culture, sports, homelessness and poverty.

The paper publishes consistently on a twice monthly basis and expanded its circulation and vendor network to become one of the highest-circulating street newspaper of its kind in North America[1][2][3][4] In 2010, The Contributor received 501(c)(3) status, becoming an independent non-profit organization.

One of the founders of The Contributor, Tasha French, received the Tennessee Titans Community Quarterback award for their volunteer efforts with the paper.

Since 2009, more than 3,200 different vendors have purchased $2,300,000 worth of The Contributor and sold over 6 million copies, generating over $15,000,000 in legitimate income for themselves.

With verified paper purchases, income can be extrapolated to apply for subsidized or traditional housing.