Kidz N Cameras Studio & Community Center

My name is Brandon Watts, and I am the founder of Kidz N Cameras non-profit. As a photographer in the Northwest Arkansas community since 2015, I understand the importance of having access to resources and education to develop my skills and pursue my passion. That's why I started Kidz N Cameras, to provide young people from diverse backgrounds, including those from low-income families, children with autism, and kids in the juvenile detention center, with access to high-quality photography education and resources.

To better serve this mission, I am excited to turn my current photography studio into the Kidz N Cameras headquarters and transform it into a community center for kids. This space will give young people access to a professional photography studio where they can explore and express their creativity, and learn the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to become successful photographers. The community center will also provide after-school programs, workshops, and a safe space for kids to express themselves through photography. Our goal is to create a world where every young person has the opportunity to harness the power of photography to tell their own stories and share their perspectives on the world.

1. Renovate the studio space into a fully functional and welcoming community center for Kidz N Cameras, including purchasing photography equipment and furniture. (June 1 - July 15)
2. Hire a team of experienced photography instructors and support staff to provide high-quality instruction and guidance to our young photographers. (July 16 - August 31)
3. Develop and implement after-school programs and workshops focusing on various aspects of photography, such as technical skills, creativity, entrepreneurship, and self-expression. (September 1 - October 31)
4. Promote our programs and workshops to local schools, community organizations, and other groups to attract a diverse group of young photographers from different backgrounds and experiences. (November 1 - December 31)
5. Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of our programs and make necessary adjustments to ensure that we are meeting the needs of our young photographers and providing them with the best possible experience. (Ongoing)
6. Host community events and exhibitions to showcase the work of our young photographers and promote the importance of photography education and self-expression. (Ongoing)
7. Seek funding opportunities and partnerships to ensure the sustainability and growth of Kidz N Cameras and our mission to empower young photographers in our community. (Ongoing)

The Kidz N Cameras community center aims to address several social and economic problems in our neighborhood and city. Many young people in our community, particularly those from low-income families, may not have access to high-quality photography education and resources. This lack of access to such opportunities can limit their opportunities for personal growth and career development.

Additionally, many children in our community may be struggling with emotional and behavioral issues and may benefit from a positive outlet to express themselves. Photography can be a powerful tool for self-expression and a way to process emotions in a healthy way.

By providing access to a fully equipped photography studio, experienced instructors, and a variety of after-school programs and workshops, we hope to empower young people under 18 to explore and express their creativity through photography. This not only helps them develop valuable skills and knowledge but also encourages positive emotional development and self-expression.

Furthermore, the Kidz N Cameras community center will serve as a safe and welcoming space for young people to gather and learn, promoting a sense of community and belonging. By addressing these social and economic issues, we hope to contribute to the growth and well-being of our neighborhood and city as a whole.