Area Photographers Snap Smiles While Giving Back

Help Portrait came to the Quantum House on Saturday, Dec. 7 to capture some smiles from the families currently residing in the house.

Jason Myers photographed families of critically ill children, who often do not have the opportunity or luxury of a professional portrait. Help Portrait is a day for photographers to give back to the community by donating their time and talent, as well as a beautiful portrait.

“As always, it is my pleasure to use my talents to help those who I know appreciate it. Knowing I was able to distract the kids and families from the real challenges going on in their lives is rewarding,” said Jason Myers, a freelance photographer based in West Palm Beach. “Using Quantum House as the host site was an easy decision for me when I thought about the families who were staying there or nearby during the holidays and were displaced from their own homes and families.”

Hair and makeup was provided to make sure each person found their way to the lens feeling great. Girl Scout Troop 20957 baked fresh cookies and cupcakes for the families to enjoy. A special visit from Santa Claus rounded out the day’s events with gifts for the Quantum House residents.

The event was underwritten by the Corvette Club of the Palm Beaches, whose members volunteered their time during the Help Portrait to work with the families and provide sweet treats for the families to snack on.

“The Corvette Club of the Palm Beaches wanted to give back to those facing health and medical issues during the holidays and help to create a happy memory together as a family. We support Quantum House and will always help them when needed,” club representative Mark Skelton said.

Help Portrait is a community of photographers who come together once a year to use their photography skills to give back. Founded by celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart, Help Portrait is now a global movement in more than 1,000 locations in 54 countries.

The Quantum House is a caring and supportive home that reduces the burden for families whose children are receiving treatment in Palm Beach County for a serious medical condition. The 10-suite hospital hospitality house provides lodging, meals, care and compassion to more than 500 family members each year. For more than 12 years, it has been the only facility of its kind between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. For more info., visit www.quantumhouse.org.

ABOVE: Photographer Jason Meyers coaches Quantum House guests Loch and Cheri Carswell on how to add a little fun to their portrait.