Transforming lives through the power of photography
Then and Now: the legacy and mission live on.
Dear Friend,
It was 70 years ago that Josephine Herrick rallied a group of her fellow volunteers.
Their mission: to take snapshots of World War II overseas bound servicemen and send photos home to their families with an attached personal note. Little did she know that this grassroots and heartfelt attempt to keep families united and raise spirits as America joined WWII, would soon be recognized by the United States Military, renowned Dr. Howard Rusk of the Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Josephine’s passion for people and understanding of the power of photography has brought us to where we are today. Being true to her mission, we are now partnering with more organizations than ever.
Veterans groups are calling as our military are returning from Afghanistan. We are partnering with The Cartwheel Initiative who is traveling to Sri Lanka and will visit three Happiness Centers in the former war zone of Vavuniya and conduct over 10 workshops in photography, painting, drawing and music over the course of two weeks starting December 5, 2011. And we are also finishing the details of a fantastic partnership with an organization that uses horseback riding in their therapy.
Change
As we venture into 2012, RTP continues to believe that by providing a creative platform to the physically and emotionally challenged, the elderly, at-risk youth, homeless and the visually impaired populations, will both inspire and enable individuals to channel their energy in an open and expressive way. This reinforces independence, self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment that rekindles a lasting interest and enthusiasm about life. No longer are they labeled by their disability, but they are enabled by their ability to connect to and capture the world around them through photography.
Programs
Our programs have profoundly changed the lives of thousands of people. Our goal is to significantly expand the programs offered, extending the power of photography to thousands more in the local community and partnering with other organizations throughout the United States.
With our newfound enthusiasm, strategic plan, expanded board and broadened coalition building activities we are seeking your financial support more than ever. Between now and years end 2012, our survival is crucial, and we need your help in order for RTP to continue and flourish.
Our goal for 2012 is $240,000 in donations -
Launch at least 15 new programs which will serve:
- Our military on their way home and reach our underserved veterans from years past
- Reach out to programs internationally similar to the need in Sri Lanka
- Partner with sexual assault and domestic violence survivor groups
- Research and launch RTP’s vision in other underserved cities in the United States
- Supply our new and existing programs with 2,500 cameras and supplies for 2012
- Launch our first and long overdue inaugural fundraising gala, to which you will all be invited
One of the great things about our end of the year appeal is that it gives us an opportunity to say thank you for 70 years of support and acknowledge those who have brought us to where we are today. There is nothing more inspiring and motivating than sharing our future visions with our supporters and sharing stories of our successes. Please visit our new website and please don’t be a stranger, pictures really do say a thousand words.
Happy New Year,
Kelly J. Strantz
Executive Director
Rehabilitation Through Photography
(212)213-4946
Please make donations to:
Rehabilitation through Photography – 64 Fulton Street Suite 905 – New York, NY 10038
or go to:
http://rtphoto.org/donate-2/ and Donate!
As a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization, all donations are fully tax-deductible
as allowed by the laws of your state.
