Phase 4

It’s not even weird anymore to say that music saves lives, that art gives people hope. Ali Waxman knows that a camera can be the one thing that keeps a kid in school. Ali’s a photography instructor. Students who fall behind in class, who don’t show up for school, who feel like nobody understands them — these are the ones Ali knows can be transformed by becoming artists.

The camera becomes their starting point, giving them a way to express themselves. That helps them gain a greater sense of accomplishment, control, and reason to keep showing up.

That’s the focus (photography joke alert) and something to smile about (say cheeeeese)! This Awesome Without Borders grant will go towards purchasing more cameras and equipment for Ali’s students at the Phase 4 alternative education center.