My Nonprofit Reviews

I first learned about Cameras for Kids in 2009 through Facebook, and I was instantly intrigued.

I know of no other charitable organization like it.

Through workshops and lessons, Cameras for Kids teaches children to "see" the world and not just "look at" it. Through everyone's support, it's creating artists in many communities across the country and beyond.

Betsey Chesler is truly a visionary leader in the arts. She's also the most large hearted mentor in south Florida.

Through the generosity of donors, she and her team provide cameras to children in foster care whose birth or foster families could never afford them.

Besides the gift of a camera, the children get an education in the art of photography and learn skills that will last a lifetime.

Most important, Cameras for Kids instills in young people skills that can lead them -- later on -- into careers as artists, journalists, or teachers.

It also fosters independence and self-actualization.

Yes, foster care provides stable and nurturing homes for many kids.

But one unfortunate side effect of the foster system is that the children often feel isolated and lonely and have no words to articulate these feelings.

I've attended three exhibits hosted by the Cameras for Kids Foundation. The images are always elegiac, dreamlike, sometimes hauntingly so.

It's hard to describe the beaming smiles and the wide eyes of the children as people stand in front of their exhibits in wonder.

I'll never forget the look on the face of one particular young lady who was absolutely overflowing with pride in her work as adults she didn't know were telling her how brilliant her photographs were.

I strongly encourage everyone to support CFK. Please attend an exhibit and be amazed.