Giving Back

I was complaining about something in the kids’ school one day and my husband said to me, “Well then, why don’t you do something about it”? Hmmmm… good question? OK, so why not? As I started thinking, it brought to mind a quote I have heard more than once; “You must be the change you want to see in the world” (~Gandhi). You know what, he’s right. I could sit there all day complaining, or I could MAKE a difference. That was kind of a turning point for me. Since then, I have tried to give of myself. It’s fairly easy to write a check, it takes a little more to give your time; to give yourself. Giving back helps others reach for a better day. Here are the ways I am making a difference through my photography:
 
F.I.L.M Project: Family Images for Lasting Memories (F.I.L.M.) donates professional family portraits to cancer patients through a network of volunteer photographers nationwide. They believe that in sharing our gifts, we can inspire healing, faith, and hope to these families during their most fragile times. F.I.L.M. is comprised of the nation’s greatest photographers volunteering our time and talent to our families at no cost. Photographers will travel to homes, hospice, or hospitals and conduct sensitive private portrait sessions. More Information
 
I Picture Hope: is a network of professional photographers that take pictures for free of women who are fighting or surviving breast cancer. It is a cancer that threatens to take away their femininity and beauty. The goal of I Picture Hope is for women be able to see that beauty and hope in themselves. More Information
 
Inspiration Through Art: is made up of professional photographers, artists, children, and other volunteers nationwide that provide free programs and services to our nations heroes. Through the power of photography and the gift of art we are giving back and taking a stand for these children who sometimes feel forgotten because of their illnesses. We are here to let them know that they are heroes to many, and to share their inspirational stories and photos with the world. More Information
 
Eagle Hill Farm Equine Rescue’s: mission is to provide a safe, loving environment for any horse, but especially rescued newborn, weanling and yearling horses that would otherwise fall into the wrong hands. At Eagle Hill Equine Rescue horses and foals can heal physically and mentally, learn to appreciate the loving hands of humans and enjoy the time spent learning general ground manners. They nourish and nurture these young horses and help find them loving “everlasting” homes. More Information
 
“There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.” —Bernard Meltzer