It’s funny the way things work out.
I spent the weekend camping out on a ranch south of Mason, Texas photographing the first ShelterBox leadership training in the US.
It was the best weekend I have had in a long, long time.
It’s funny who you’ll meet.
How things work out.
ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity, run almost entirely by volunteers. The organization focuses on supplying families with shelter and the basic necessities at the time when they need it most – when disaster strikes.
After the weekend I was explaining the group to a fellow photographer friend of mine who is also a retired physician. He seconded the opinion that shelter and warmth – two of ShelterBox’s key mission points are vital and are often forgotten by disaster response teams. The third is an oft-overlooked aspect to disaster relief – dignity.
Who hasn’t seen video footage or still images of relief – food, blankets, etc. – being thrown out of the back of an aid truck to eagerly waiting people?
ShelterBox makes an effort to connect with the people they aid – to treat the survivors as they themselves would like to be treated. Some would call it the golden rule.
From what I saw this weekend, it’s simply the only way to do business for these folks.
More images and information to come soon – I am running on about 12 hours of sleep for the past four days and am afraid I can’t do the group justice in one post. I’d highly recommend you check out the ShelterBox USA website – this group has had a huge effect on me and I hope to work with them in the future.
Tags: People
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Sounds like an epic weekend, Fire Girl. I’ve vaguely heard of ShelterBox but will check them out more thoroughly now.
I’m a ShelterBox Volunteer and found your blog looking for SB images. Your photography is really impressive. Your talent with the camera has produced some amazing works of art.
Doug, Thanks much for taking the time to comment. I’ve just spent some time on your blog and love it! I’m actually teaching a class for a group of Boy Scouts this coming Thursday. Another awesome organization.
Thanks so much for taking the time to support ShelterBox and to blog about it. Your troop is a lucky one to have you around.
Best,
Jess