100% of the charity funds I am supporting will be placed at "Doctors without Borders." and Kids Alive International
Receipts and proof that 100% was indeed given to these provided charities will be provided to donors. This other link is my thank you list of all the artists, dancers and families who have helped me contribute to these charities.
Eventually, when I have enough funds, I would like to donate to Charity Navigator, a very important organization, which researches the accountability and trustworthiness of charities.
The Story Behind My Charity Donation Campaign
Many of us wire photojournalists struggle with debts incurred from broken or replaced camera gear; the waiting period for an article submission; the concern that we would not meet the minumum income level required for National Health Care - all impacted when and how I could monetarily donate to a charity.
I try to volunteer regularly with Micah Ministry, which feeds the homeless in Independence, a high-crime area of the city I live in. But it isn't enough, and in a sense it never will be either. There is always more that a single person can always do.....
Photojournalists are forbidden to sell commercially while on-the-job. But then there are times when folks need or ask for my photographs because loved ones have passed away and other special circumstances.
I had to find a way to protect the copyrights of ZUMA Press, the national ballet companies, and my own copyright. Once a photo is seen online, editors will not purchase the photographs. Magazines want new and original photo essays, which are crucial to my income. By having this page where people can donate to the charities, in exchange for a free photo print, I can still gather contributions to charity, bring honor to my profession, and to let individuals have their precious memories.
It is for specific individuals with these special circumstances, that I created this page. Thank you for reading, and Christ's Blessings to all.