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Industry Perspective

Helping Those With Special Needs: Rehabilitation Through Photography

by Ron Leach

We've often spoken of photography as a beacon for social change and a powerful vehicle for improving the plight of those less fortunate than ourselves. And these days there is perhaps no better example than Rehabilitation Through Photography (RTP)-an organization founded almost 70 years ago to help veterans returning from World War II. RTP provided portable darkrooms, cameras and instruction as a means of helping troubled vets heal their bodies and their spirits.

Today the folks at RTP partner with concerned individuals, as well as public and private organizations, to create programs in hospitals, schools, rehab centers and other facilities serving those with special needs in the New York metropolitan area. They also train instructors and work tirelessly to procure digital and analog photographic gear, accessories, and supplies. And that's where all of us come in; namely, RTP's programs are only made possible because of individual contributions and support from foundations and corporations.

I encourage everyone to get involved and support RTP in their effort bring the beauty of photography to those who need some inspiration. You can visit Rehabilitation Through Photography online at www.rtphoto.org or send donations to their office at 3 E. 33rd St., Suite 1012, New York, NY 10016. If you have any questions, feel free to contact RTP at 212/213-4946.