March 10th, 2010, I was honored to receive the 4th annual “Humanitarian of the Year” award from WPPI for work I had done getting cameras into the hands of Russian orphans and having some of their pictures published in RangeFinder magazine. At that time I had no idea how significant this award would be in forecasting the direction my life was about to take.
“Using photography to make a difference in the world” has become my guiding light, artistic expression, and humanitarian practice. With images and words I am changing perceptions of the homeless from one of FEAR and JUDGMENTS to one of LOVE. The formula is simple - acknowledgement of our common humanity. It starts by making eye contact, offering spare change, a kind word, or just sharing a smile. These simple acts can inspire real change. Practice them and see for yourself. What will your eyes see?
“Dirty Kids” is a view of both the beauty > darkness I’ve discovered in the shadows of our streets. I have been welcomed into this community as family. These dirty kids, lost boys, and outcasts are the contemporary prodigal sons and daughters of our time and I celebrate their unconventional journey home, as it parallels my own. There is a common longing to be accepted in our brokenness and reminded that we are, in fact, worthy of Love. I communicate this worthiness with a camera and a hug.
Denise and I inspire ambassadors of love among the homeless and high risk youth. Will you join us? WE > ME. With your partnership, we can collectively create greater healing. This book is the next step toward that broader vision.
Corporate donors and interested philanthropists can launch a new paradigm of love onto our city streets. As dirty kids meet our Ambassadors of Love and experience unconditional acceptance, there is great space for emotional and psychological healing.
Please support this work and purchase a book or two. For every book you purchase, we give one to a dirty kid.
In deep gratitude,
Joe + Denise