Empowering Youth
The mission of Focus On Youth is to keep at-risk youth on the path to graduation using photography and mentoring to empower and inspire them to achieve academic success. Focus on Youth has been putting cameras in the hands of at-risk youth for the past seven years and we have seen them transformed by their experience. We believe that all individuals deserve respect, dignity, education and equitable chance to achieve their full potential. We value diversity and seek out inclusive partnerships with all members of our community.
Community Building
Mentors
Focus on Youth puts cameras in the hands of at-risk youth and provides students the opportunity to develop a trusting relationship with a caring adult mentor who is a good role model. Through one-on-one mentoring with professional photographers, youth learn the art of photography in a supportive environment that guides them towards personal growth, goal setting and social responsibility.
This experience is transforming and enriching for mentors and youth alike. Ethnically and culturally diverse low-in-come youth work side by side with photographer while earning credit towards their graduation. Focus on Youth Director and Founder, Donna Lee Holmes has recruited professional photographers from The American Society of Media Photographers and The Portland Metropolitan Photographers Association who volunteer as mentors.
Making a Difference
Focus on Youth is committed to providing teens with learning experiences that help them gain skills and abilities that are transferable to their future educational and professional endeavors. These photography workshops are a rewarding way for teens to express themselves while documenting their community and cultures. Youth experience the power of their imagination and in the process they develop new perspectives.
Focus on Youth is empowering at-risk youth by providing cameras, equipment, resources and materials that otherwise would not be available to them. We have introduced digital technology and our greatest need if for computers and digital cameras. Many of the alternative schools we partner with are not able to offer these arts education classes students need to complete this requirement.
Get Involved
Donate a digital camera, memory card, flash drive or computer for students. Contact Donna Lee Holmes at 503 341-6878. Your donation is tax-deductible.
Creating Success
Focus on Youth is playing a vital role in bringing youth from different backgrounds and cultures together for a learning experience that supports their curiosity and determination. We are providing youth with the opportunity to learn photography, a place where their creativity and self-esteem can flourish, and a chance to be successful. Focus on Youth promotes academic and artistic excellence, recognizes achievement and provides critically needed mentoring and arts education for our most vulnerable youth people.
Students involved with Focus on Youth learn to establish goals, acquire confidence and acquire new skills. This supportive learning community creates an environment in which students can feel comfortable exploring new directions in their thinking, their relationships and their life choices.
