PhotoPhilanthropy

About the Organization

First Exposures is the only mentoring program in San Francisco that provides free weekly photography classes for underserved youth aged 11-18. Students live with their families in transitional or low-income housing in the San Francisco Bay Area. Camerawork collaborates with a wide range of youth service organizations in order to reach young people with diverse backgrounds. Praised as a model program by the State of California, First Exposures is unique in its one-to-one pairing of each child with a photographer who serves as a caring mentor and positive adult role model. Mentors are photographers with a commitment to youth empowerment through education, volunteering for a minimum of one year. First Exposures provides a creative outlet for students to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment, and encourages them to become articulate, confident, and responsible young adults.

About the Opportunity

First Exposures mentors are commercial and fine art photographers over the age of 21 who are interested in working with young people to help them achieve their full potential. First Exposures mentors work one-on-one with their students, creating a safe and supportive environment in which students gain self-esteem as they express themselves through photography. Mentors must make a one year minimum commitment.