My Thanks

I am so incredibly thankful for many things… my husband, my dog, my house, my family and friends. Also, my health, my sight, and my freedom. One of the ways I show my thanks to God and those around me is by giving back in the form of volunteer work.

When I began my journey into the field of photography, I yearned to make a difference through this medium. Although, at the time I pictured myself in foreign lands, organizing relief efforts and donations based on my images…

It has taken several years, but my goals have shifted. I now realize that I do not need to be on the other side of the planet to make a difference through photography. I can make a difference right here in Rochester. I’ve been volunteering for years through my church and other worthy causes, but the one I’m writing about today is the MDA: Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Spotlight on MDA

My relationship with the MDA began last year when I received a phone call asking if I would participate in the local “Lock up” event. If you aren’t familiar with it, people from a community go “behind bars” and must raise “bail” from their network to get out. All of the proceeds are donated to the association in the fight against muscle disease. These events are held nationwide, so there may be one in your area.

At the time, I had just moved to Fairport so I didn’t think I would have many people to call. We had also just bought a house, so our cash flow was significantly pinched. I still wanted to help, so I asked if they could use a photographer. Sally and Lindsay were both very excited about my offer, so I attended the event and took “Jailbird” photos. It was a chance to use my camera and meet other volunteers.

Fast forward, its now May 2012. I receive another call from Sally, asking if I am available to photograph a different event: A Night at the Races. I didn’t know much about it, but it was the eleventh annual fundraising event with a Kentucky Derby theme. I cleared my calendar, and attended. And boy am I glad I did!

Silent Auction on the back deck at Monroe Golf Club

A Night at the Races

On May 5th, Monroe Golf Club was the place to be. Big hats and even bigger hearts! The MDA team made it fun and easy for folks to give with events like a silent auction, live auction, diamond raffle and wine pull. Can you guess which one I participated in? If you guessed wine pull you know me to well.

I was tasked with capturing the setting, the attendees and guests of honor. Everyone I met was just lovely, from the guests to the servers and the other volunteers. Everyone was out to have a good time and raise money for a good cause. And raise money they did!

In addition to donating my time, I’m also offering prints for sale from this event with a portion going back to the MDA. You can make a direct donation by clicking here or you can purchase a photo from the event. 25% of all proceeds will be given to the MDA of Rochester.

Guest of honor, Joe Marinucci, giving his speech

Guest of honor, Joy Parker, giving her speech

Rebecca LeClaire acted as MC for the evenings festivities

Maggie Brooks, second from left, was the guest speaker for this MDA event

Reward

At the end of the night, I left having made new friends, been inspired by speakers Joe and Joy living with a muscle disease, and feeling like I had made a difference. Thats the best reward anyone could ask for. If you would like to donate to this worthy cause, I encourage you to click here to give directly, or purchase a photo from the event where 25% of the proceeds will be given to the MDA of Rochester.

Thank you to Sally and Lindsay for asking me to participate!

Sally and Lindsay, MDA of Rochester, event organizers

To see more photos from the evening, click here.