Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

Note to Editors: High resolution digital images available here: http://bit.ly/2T9S1SO

Media Contact: Christie Davis, Development Director, Kids in Focus, (602) 980-1578, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Kids in Focus to Unveil Inspiring Photo Exhibit by At-Risk Kids at

Free Opening Night Reception April 7 in the Outdoor Pavilion at Park Central

(Phoenix, AZ – January 25, 2022) - Kids in Focus (KIF), a local nonprofit providing photography mentoring programs to at-risk kids, is hosting its 10th annual Exhibit Opening Reception 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. on Thursday, April 7, at the Park Central Mall Arts Pavilion, 3121 N 3rd Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013. This free public event features 80 photographs created by 40 at-risk kids and is the culmination of a 9-week mentoring program that takes the kids on a journey of self-discovery. In addition to viewing the kids’ photographs, guests will have the opportunity to meet the young photographers and their mentors while enjoying live music and complimentary food and beverages.

For the 2022 exhibition, KIF worked with students from Children First Leadership Academy, Esperanza Community School and Boys and Girls Club IG Homes branch. The kids went on field trips to exciting places throughout the valley, exploring with cameras in hand and volunteer photographer mentors by their side.  The kids learned to reframe the world around them while also building self-confidence and trust in themselves and others.

“The significance of this event for the participating kids is immeasurable,” says Karen Shell, Kids in Focus Executive Director.  “That evening, the kids feel like super stars and their creative sparks are turned into flame.  It’s difficult to believe that just three months earlier, many of these kids couldn’t lift their eyes off the ground or make eye contact.  Showcasing the kids’ accomplishments to a crowd of supporters fills them with a sense of pride they have never experienced.  I encourage everyone to come experience the beauty of this event.  The more people that attend, the bigger the impact on the kids.  You’ll make a difference to the kids just by showing up.”

After the reception, the photographs will move to public venues across the Valley, starting at the Arizona Science Center throughout April, and then traveling to Scottsdale Civic Center Library, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, and more. For more information and to reserve your free ticket, please visit www.kidsinfocus.org or https://aesaz.co/ELP/KIFEXHIBIT.

About Kids in Focus:  Kids in Focus (KIF) is a Phoenix based 501(c)3 organization that inspires hope and fosters positive outcomes in children starting at age 7 who come from backgrounds of abuse, neglect, poverty, homelessness and other adversities. Through the restorative power of photography and with the guidance of dedicated mentors, the kids are inspired to open their eyes to their own potential and self-worth.  Since 2012, Kids in Focus has been making an extraordinary impact on resilience in the lives of vulnerable kids. Each program culminates with public exhibits and free opening night celebrations bringing awareness and inspiration to people throughout the Valley.  Venues include the Arizona Science Center, Biltmore Fashion Park, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Scottsdale Civic Center Library, Scottsdale Fashion Square, Sky Harbor Airport, the State Capitol, as well as various restaurants, hotels, and coffee shops.

www.kidsinfocus.org.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it • 3104 E Camelback Rd, #831, Phoenix AZ 85016 • 602.753.6339 • www.kidsinfocus.org