More than 100 people lined up to have free formal portraits taken at the Whiteaker Community Dinner on Thanksgiving in Eugene, Oregon.
For one man it was the first photo he’d had taken of himself in 10 years – other than a mug shot. For a family of seven, it was their first family portrait ever. Another couple planned to mail their portrait to their daughter who is in the Air Force fighting in Afghanistan.
The portraits were taken as part of the Free Photo Project, which was 
started by Lane Community College student and amateur photographer, Aloma Calacin, last year out of a desire to give the gift of photography to those who may not have access to a camera. For the Whiteaker Thanksgiving dinner, Calacin invited professional photographers to help.
Beyond free portraits, there was a free traditional Thanksgiving dinner prepared by the culinary students at Lane Community College, live music, free massages and donated clothing, toothbrushes and sleeping bags. More than 600 people volunteered at the event, and more than 2,000 people were expected to attend.
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Photos and story by Katie Campbell, a local photographer, writer, journalist and educator.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
HECK YES! Aloma rocks, but to know her heart and ReSolve is to know the strength that love expressed is.
She is, as well, a moving artist.
Aloma is in a class I teach at Lane, called, “Be the Change, Personal Development meets Social Action.”
Aside from her unique drive to give in the world, Aloma was also able to complete her prescribed ten hours of volunteer time for the course by changing peoples lives with her photographs at the Whiteaker Thanksgiving dinner. Aloma inspires many people.
I feel lucky to have been close enough to witness and spport her burgeoning genius around this project that she has developed. Her passion will take it far.
a former eugenian now living in paris, this, sent by my good friend lola, is like a whiff of the best eugene has to offer. i love it!
Aloma volunteer to take pictures of families and children out our annual Harvest Carnival. It made the night special. Her project will certainly touch many lives.
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