Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Jen Vogus, Founder and Executive Director of AbleVoices, who shares the personal story of what led her to launch the Middle Tennessee-based nonprofit organization on a mission to amplify the voices of youth and adults with disabilities through the powerful medium of photography, ultimately fostering more inclusive communities.
During the interview, Jen talks about how photography helped her son, Aidan, to communicate with teachers and his peers at school, showing them what he was able to do, his passions and interests, and the people he loves most. She discusses how those experiences became the inspiration to learn about the Photovoice Method and then evolved into the program, Photography for Self-Expression, which are courses led in schools, community organizations and virtually to teach photography to youth and adults with disabilities as a means for self-expression, empowerment, and advocacy. Each project culminates with a gallery exhibit so the public can learn about the photographers and to help foster more inclusive communities. Jen also highlights their year-round in-person and virtual Photography Club programs and their Disability Advocacy Projects, shares stories of impact, and how the community can get involved and support their efforts.
Visit https://www.ablevoices.org to learn more and get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/ablevoices
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ablevoices/
