Capturing Tomorrow: How Your Gift Creates Young Nature Photographers
Hello everyone! We hope that this autumn season has been treating you well thus far. The stunning fall colours are just starting to emerge, and our in-school
Workshops are well underway! What more could we ask for? This is such an amazing time of year that reminds us that change is necessary in life. So, let’s change things up and get right into this month’s blog!
Take a minute- Close your eyes. Imagine a world where the vibrant colors of nature fade, unseen by young eyes. Cameras, left untouched, not explored by curious little hands. At Focus on Nature, we believe every child deserves the chance to connect with the natural world, to capture its beauty, and to share their unique perspective through the art of photography. Each year, we visit 200 schools, connecting with over 8000 students all across Ontario. Click here to see what teachers are saying about their experience with us.
Although we want to shed light on the fact that our programs are more than just photography workshops, they're journeys of discovery that often are the first interaction between children and the art of nature photography. We guide young people from all walks of life, teaching them to see the world with new eyes and to test their creative abilities. We provide them with the tools and mentorship to express themselves, fostering creativity, building confidence, and nurturing a deep appreciation for our planet. But we can't do it alone. This past year, we conducted 66 workshops for free/ subsidized schools, and 30 free camp spots this summer. There is a dire need for financial support to keep organizations like us afloat.
Below is a letter from a Hamilton Region Teacher whose class has experienced the kindness and generosity of your donations firsthand.
Dear Focus on Nature,
I would just like to thank you and our generous sponsors for the wonderful opportunity of participate in the digital photography and arts workshops. My Grade 7 classes have enjoyed these days for the past two years. The students were amazed that they were able to capture such captivating images after participating in the training sessions, and then use the camera's features to express themselves even further. Most of us were unaware that we even HAD nature in our neighbourhood! I loved seeing their published art pieces and the pride they took with photographs that were not their customary selfies. This experience was especially meaningful for Lake Avenue's students, as many are new to Canada, working on learning our languages and finding communication a challenge. The Focus on Nature workshop leveled the playing field, and all students were able to be fully immersed in the day's work. Additionally, without donor support, our school would not be able to participate in rich learning experiences such as Focus on Nature. Our community struggles to meet the basic needs of its residents, and there is rarely 'extra' for experiences costing money. When we do get to attend a workshop or field trip, I am so grateful that our students are not forgotten about and considered less-than.
On behalf of the students and teachers at Lake Avenue School, thank you, and please keep offering such exceptional programs.
Kind regards,
Sara
Teacher
Your donation, no matter the size, is an investment in these young lives and a positive contribution toward local natural environments. It helps us provide cameras and equipment to those who can't afford them, fund workshops in underserved communities, and organize exhibits that showcase the incredible talent of these young photographers. With your support, we can continue to foster connections between young people and nature photography. Give today, and help us develop a world seen through a lens of hope.
