On November 17, volunteers set up a studio space in the Bristol Public Library for the annual DMAD Help Portrait event. This year, Help Portrait provided framed portraits and gift bags to thirty-nine families, consisting of over one hundred people. Families who might not have been able to afford a professional portrait were able to receive one at no cost, beginning their holiday season with a gift courtesy of King University.
Thanks to donors at King, DMAD was able to provide each family with a high-quality framed photograph, a gift card, and a flash drive with digital copies of other photos taken of that family. Families were provided with free food and refreshments courtesy of Help Portrait donors at Chick-fil-A, Food City, Blackbird Bakery, and King University food services.
Families were very grateful to receive their portraits. Several returning from previous years were joyous to see the progression of their lives through photographs. Two departing families proudly described their own annual tradition of adding each year’s photo to their wall. For those who participate, Help Portrait isn’t just about a free photo. It has become an expected part of the holiday season.
King students enjoyed the opportunity to work as part of the event. Help Portrait is organized by students, and everyone working the event is a volunteer. Veterans returning to the event appreciated the chance to be part of it again, while newcomers had the opportunity to learn from both upper-level DMAD students and returning alumni.
Every year, those involved with Help Portrait are humbled by both the support they receive and the good they are able to do. King students, alumni, and others lent their efforts to making Help Portrait possible this year. Two volunteers drove all the way from Buffalo, New York, just to be a part of Help Portrait. This is a great chance for students to give back to the community, but it is also about building a culture of giving. DMAD students who participate in Help Portrait understand the importance of using their skills and knowledge responsibly. Students appreciate the value of service through direct connections with the people they help.
For more information about this year’s Help Portrait event, see this webpage on our website.
