2011 Miracle on 19th Street

This Christmas Day marked the 9th time my wife Kiha and I participated in this non-profit event.  Formerly, the Rock Bottom Foundation, now the CraftWorks Foundation, this Christmas, nearly 2,000 folks attended.  The restaurant closes, and guests are seated and served plated meals with a choice of ham or turkey, with all of the fixings!  In addition, there are toys and games for the kids, flu shots, coats and hats and pictures with Santa.  They really do it right!

Transportation is provided from several downtown Denver shelters, however, a large line of ‘walk-ins’ lasts throughout the day.  Fortunately, this year the weather cooperated and it wasn’t bitter cold outside!  I enjoy walking up and down the line.  Not only is it fun to chit-chat, but everyone is happy and thankful, plus the light for taking pictures is perfect!

I always ask for permission before taking these photos and when I explain the pictures are for the non-profit itself, there is usually an eager reaction!  This year was the first time I brought 4×6 prints to give out from the last event in case I found the same folks.  It was kind of like a scavenger hunt, and unfortunately, I only found 2 folks…

Some of the most powerful memories of each event are meeting families and children who are living in shelters or on the streets.  On the flip side, another great memory is meeting all of the relatives and families that volunteer at this event to help support the non-profit:

All in all, it’s just the perfect way to spend the holiday.  Kiha and I are very lucky.  One one hand this day is a reminder of that fact.  On the other, we are just lucky to be in the position to give back.  I hope the photos can the CraftWorks Foundation and continue the tradition of giving!

Check out this link to see the additional sponsors for the event:

And if you know of any other non-profits looking for photography, please keep me in mind!