We have witnessed various types of poverty and environmental degradation while ouside and across the U.S. This has inspired us to help. We feel a strong responsibility to support sustainable social programs.
.Art = Change.
MOPA (The Museum of Photographic Arts) offers some great education programs that we have had the honor to lead. Kids involved in these programs learn techniques to improve their skills and develop a portfolio. Bernadette teaches photography and develops curricula for the museum..
To learn more check out their website:
MOPA
Along the same lines, the AjA Project works with youth affected by war and displacement. Kids involved in these programs develop photography and writing skills as a means of self expression and empowerment. The AjA Project has created numerous public art displays. Bernadette has taught photography and develops curriculum for these programs.
To learn more check out their website:
AjA Project
.Empowering Entrepreneurs.
We are also involved with ‘Kiva’. Kiva is a really cool organization that allows us to make small loans to entrepreneurs in various parts of the world. They have loaned over 70 million dollars through more than 480,000 lenders with a 98% repayment rate. We do not make a profit on the loans – It’s a powerful and sustainable way to empower someone to lift themselves out of poverty. In fact we have recently helped out a wedding photographer in Vietnam! You can even set up a wedding registry through Kiva.
To learn more check out their website:
Kiva
.Providing Basic Needs.
We have been involved in creating public art displays that raise money and awareness. The United Nations Foundation is a great organization that addresses a variety of issues including climate and energy, to children’s health, to sustainable development, technology, clean drinking water.
To learn more check out their website:
UN Foundation