Clifton | Cincinnati, OH Sometimes as a photographer I get the opportunity to spend time with people who I would normally (probably) never come in contact with on a regular day.  It’s one of the perks of the job.  A couple weeks ago I had the chance to spend a few minutes taking portraits of 8 students and an adult for Cincinnati Youth Collaborative.  You can read more about what CYC does on their website but, in a nutshell, they are a non-profit organization in the city working to help students through mentoring and college readiness programs.  They do it by connecting volunteers (like you!) to students and teaching the adults how to help the students succeed.  An amazing mission for sure!

The students you see here were nominated for an annual award based on their academic and social achievements through their schools and the CYC program.  Each of these students has a story.  I only got to spend a few minutes with each but they were fun to be around and I am glad I had the opportunity to meet each one of them.  We could all learn a ton from these young adults as they demonstrate what it means to overcome challenges and push forward no matter the circumstances.  I am in awe of them.

I am also in awe of CYC’s staff.  They are beautiful people with a huge heart to see kids succeed in life, even when they might not have been given a decent chance to.  When I grow up, I want to be like these students and those staff members:)

If you are looking for a worthwhile place to donate your time or money shoot CYC an email.  You won’t regret it.  If you don’t have the time or money, shoot them an email anyways and tell them how much you appreciate the work their are doing to help our city.

Thanks CYCers and thanks to all those volunteers working hard to make a difference in the lives of students like these!

*if you want to book us as your Photographer please visit our website or email us for more info.