BRONX, new york, usa
100CAMERAS X WHEDCO
100cameras x WHEDco is a part of a 8 class course that is custom designed by 100cameras to equip passionate creatives with the tools to empower youth in a community they care about with the opportunity to learn how to process their stories and create change. Pictured here are 100cameras students during the course.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
During the Summer of 2019, 9 students learned to tell their stories through 100cameras X WHEDco in New York City, New York USA. In partnership with The Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDco), a community development organization founded on the radically simple idea that all people deserve healthy, vibrant communities. WHEDco’s mission is to give the South Bronx access to all the resources that create thriving neighborhoods: from high-quality early education and after-school programs, to fresh, healthy food, cultural programming, and economic opportunity. In addition to after-school programming, they build award-winning, sustainable, affordable homes, supporting their belief that in order to be successful, affordable housing must be anchored in strong communities that residents can be proud of.
For many parents, this after-school program is the safe and trusted space they need for their children. The 100cameras program came alongside WHEDco to provide a meaningful experience where youth — who oftentimes must stay indoors while their parents are working — could explore their neighborhood and many scenic sites of New York City while having fun and learning how to express themselves and tell their stories.
“I sat and watched the sunset from my balcony, it was quiet and peaceful. Having a camera allowed me to see it differently — like the sunset was mine.”
“This program is a good tool to help learn about who you are today.”
ABOUT THE PROGRAM LEADER
Christine Wexler is a producer for documentary films and a photographer. Through the arts, she strives to create awareness and long lasting social impact of change.
“Many of the kids do not have the freedom to be outside after school or camp. Their parents work and they have to stay inside. Quickly they found their homes to be more interesting and explored shadows, shapes and people. This created a changed perspective of space. Many practiced and explored their neighborhoods taking pictures of family and friends enjoying the long summer days.”
STUDENT IMAGE GALLERY
Follow us on social media to see images from the field as captured by the 100cameras X WHEDco team and the student photographers.