In this series on giving, we’ve been looking at different ways photographers can make a positive difference in their communities. Whether you are a business owner or a hobbyist, there are so many charitable opportunities for to donate your artistry and skills. An additional avenue for giving back with your talents is to work with a non- profit organization. Many charities are in need of photographers who are willing to volunteer their time. A great thing about these agencies is not only do they bring awareness to their particular cause, they also serve as a bridge connecting those with a specific need to those who can provide a service. Maybe one of the following causes will tug at you and perhaps even prompt you to contact them to see how you can help.
Heart Gallery
A Family for Every Child is dedicated to finding loving, permanent families for every waiting foster child. One of the ways they do that is through the Heart Gallery, a portrait exhibit displayed to raise awareness of the needs of foster children. Professional photographers volunteer to take compelling portraits, and these beautifully framed and matted portraits are displayed along with the children’s biographies in various venues.
HeARTs Speak
HeARTs Speak is an organization which promotes animal adoption and finds that professional photographs greatly improves animal adoptability. Through the services of professional photographers volunteering their time, HeARTs Speaks hopes to increase the number of animals adopted and reduce the numbers that are euthanized.
Help Project
The idea behind Help-Portrait is simple: 1. Find someone in need 2. Take their portrait 3. Print their portrait and 4. Deliver their portrait. The Help-Portrait Event takes place worldwide the second weekend of every December.