Community Photography Heroes
Not all heroes wear capes. We're hearing from these community heroes, who you may know: John Millar, Ann Thayer and Larry Veit. These heroes are best known for taking free family portraits in the Jackson community. In addition, they capture portraits of Native Americans in their regalia at powwows, which is their way of being good neighbors.
Projects in 2023 include event photography for Old Bill’s, visits by our Bishop, and the Special Olympics; the creation of videos for St. John’s annual report and the Red Door Series; and the editing of mini-documentaries of Native American dancers and the stories behind their dances and regalia. Public Service Announcements created with the Community Prevention Committee of Teton County and the Teton County Sheriff's Department are now running in the local cinema. Videos are in production for the Wonder Festival and the Juggernauts Roller Derby team. Coming up next is the Ethete Celebration Powwow July 14-16. While onsite, the team takes photos and gives the subjects a framed portrait free of charge. They have already visited the Teton Powwow in Jackson and the Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow in Fort Washakie. And mid-July, the crew is assisting with a film production class for middle schoolers with their partner Soul Creative Media.
This crew enjoys many great partnerships in the community and has worked with a dozen groups this year alone. Partners include Habitat for Humanity, One22, the Wyoming Winter Special Olympics, Children’s Learning Center, Community Safety Network, VoicesJH, Central Wyoming College, Community Entry Services, Jackson Chorale Society, Boy Scouts of America, Therapeutic Riding, and Native American Jump Start. Inside the parish walls, this crew's leadership shines in the St. John’s Folk Singing Group, Habitat for Humanity volunteers, and Pastoral Care team.
John, Ann, and Larry love photography and videography and being able to use it to do something for the community. Recently, a mom came to them and told them that she’d never had a good picture of her son until they gave it to her. Late friend and mentor, Doug Ayers, started them on this path and they’ve tried to keep the flame burning with the help of many dedicated volunteers from within and outside St. John's Church. Like Doug, they’re always looking for new projects and welcome anyone interested to join, whatever their skills or age.
If you see these heroes around campus, please congratulate them!
