A high up view of people among tables during an event with large screen that says "Building Bridges Gala"

With a background in photojournalism—and a lifelong love for people and their stories—I’ve always been drawn to nonprofits. I truly believe they keep hope alive, especially in times like these, when critical programs across the country are being defunded.

I’ve worked for nonprofits in the past and volunteer with one today. The work is not easy. Budgets are tight, roles are stretched, and you’re constantly balancing the desire to help others with the hard reality that money often drives what’s possible.

A room setup example display with a bed, shelves, and dresser in a stadium.

Framed signs laying on a bed that list bedding items and the cost for each item.

Since 2023, I’ve had the honor of freelancing for the Center, and this year marked my third time photographing their Building Bridges Gala. It’s one of the most thoughtfully produced and joyful events I’ve ever documented. The setting is stunning, the energy is contagious, and everywhere you look, people are smiling, connecting, and celebrating community. Every team member I’ve met is deeply committed to Detroit’s unhoused community—not just with care, but with real action. Their hearts are fully in the work, and that’s what makes them so successful.

Two men hug in a crowd of people against a blue background.

A man and a woman talk to one another in a crowd of people during a gala event.

A screen showing an interview with a man.

A gala attendee hold up a paper sign with a number is illuminated with stage lighting.

At events like this, my goal is to stay unobtrusive. I often shoot from a distance with my Fujifilm 50–140mm 2.8 lens, which allows me to capture authentic, candid moments. If people don’t notice I’m there, I consider that a success. I strongly feel that quiet observation often leads to the most genuine images. I don’t want to influence anyone to act a certain way because my camera is pointed at them. I want to capture who they truly are, their natural smiles and reactions to being in company with one another.

Father Tim smiling and talking with a guest during the Building Bridges Gala

A man wearing glasses, smiles at the Building Bridges Gala.

A man smiles while he sits at a table and is illuminated by stage lights.

A woman wearing a dress put on tennis shoes on a football field.

A woman gives a thumbs up to a man in a crowd while standing on a football field.

A centerpiece on a table at the Building Bridges Gala dinner table.

Sparkling shoes on the turf of a football field.

An older man smiles while talking to another man while standing in a crowd during a gala event.

A woman smiles and laughs while talking to another person while in a crowd of people during a gala event.

People pose for a photo on Ford Field while wearing black tie attire and standing with the Detroit Lions mascot.

A man holds up a piece of paper with a number on it while another man holding a microphone points at it.

A crowd of people sit and talk while illuminated by overhead lighting.

A person holds up a piece of paper with the number 613. They are sitting at a table and illuminated by stage lights.

Thank you again to the Pope Francis Center for inviting me to be a part of this important work. Documenting your mission and sharing the stories of this community is a true honor. I’ve learned so much about the challenges Detroit’s homeless population faces—and about the real, meaningful efforts it takes to create lasting change.