Serving Odisha

This summer I will be serving as a volunteer photographer documenting the work at the Kalinga Eye Hospital in Odisha, India.

Why photography?  
Since last spring I have been studying photography through the Open College of the Arts.  I am nearly finished with my first course, feeling a bit more confident about my skills, and was looking for some opportunity this summer to further my practice.  Through previous internet searches I was aware of volunteer opportunities for photographers and so started casting about for something that might fit my needs, my schedule, and my interests.

Why Unite for Sight?

I found several interesting journalism opportunities in places such as Sri Lanka and Mongolia, but they required serious fees of several thousands of dollars, much of which seemed to be going to the referral agent.    While Unite for Sight also requires a substantial investment, all funds go directly to hospitals to support eye surgery.  This seems like a much better investment of financial resources.  In addition, Unite for Sight seems to have a rigorous system in place for screening and training volunteers. It's not just a matter of having money and time, but having skills, being committed, and being willing to undergo training (about which I'll write more later).

Why Odisha?  
Unite for Sight supports hospitals in Honduras, Ghana, and India.  As you probably know, I have a special interest in India and have traveled there often in recent years. It's a huge country and there are many parts I haven't yet visited, including Odisha.  The area also has a small number of Buddhist archaeological sites that I would like to explore after finishing my work with the hospital.

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