Students start photography workshop for underprivileged kids

By Marcus Davis

A new program developed by two UK graduates offers kids the ability to put their artwork on display. Jeff and Christina Gora have developed the program, Our World in Pictures, which teaches kids about photography and gives them the chance to show off their art.

Jeff and Christina developed this program as a way for underprivileged kids to learn a different artistic perspective.

“I love working with kids,” Christina Gora said. “I’ve mentored kids before, so I wanted to work with underprivileged kids.”

Our World in Pictures offers kids the chance to learn about photography from professional photographers in a one-on-one setting allowing each child to get the attention they need.

The Goras said Herald Leader photographer Dave Perry and a few UK journalism students have volunteered at the program.

“We only accept committed people” Christina Gora said. “It’s so important that theses kids be with their mentors for the whole workshop.”

Jodie Koch, program director at the East Seventh Street Community Center, said she agreed to work with OWIP because she sees how much of an influence media and technology has on kids.

“Anytime an adult had a camera out for taking pictures of activities, the kids would want to take turns using the camera. So, hosting OWIP sessions was a no-brainer,” Koch said. “The relationships with the children who come to the center and the desire to broaden their horizons with positive, educational programming are what keep me going.”

The children involved in this program have the chance to see their art displayed on the program’s Web site.

At the moment Jeff and Christina pay for this program with their own money. They have applied for the Lexington Art Grant and are waiting to see what will happen.

“We are paying for it out of our own pocket right now. We need new cameras and a projector,” Christina Gora said.

OWIP has workshops on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the East Seventh Street Center from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

If you are interested in learning more about OWIP visit their website at www.ourworldinpictures.org. You can go to “Contact Us” on the site if you would like to become a volunteer or get a child involved in the program. OWIP is looking to expand, so if you would like to set up a workshop in your neighborhood please contact Jeff and Christina.