#chicagophotocoop

Introducing the first member of the ChicagoPhotoCoop, Sebastian Castro. Sebastian is 17, and from the moment I met him I had no doubt of his commitment to his art. What I get from working with Sebastian is his humble heart, most kids of his age that are learning photography and come to me they think they know more than me. He has a lot patience and he is not afraid to ask questions. Welcome! (Photo: Oscar Castro)

Chicago Photo Cooperative is Born. Hi my name is Charlie Billups and with the purpose of fighting the tide of youth violence in Chicago, I have created the ChicagoPhotoCoop as a means to inspire young individuals in alternative creative paths in their lives through mentoring and teaching in the photographic arts.  This is something that I have wanted to do for a long time and after being involved with Anti-violence groups and the Chicago Public Schools and being the board president of the Segundo Ruiz Belvis Community Center, I am convinced that we have to become role models and mentors to those that don’t have them.  It is my experience that many parents turn their parenting duties to Youtube, Facebook and cell phones in an unhealthy way.  Even though many say that there is no economic future in the photography arts, I believe that young people can use this in the beginning as an outlet and purpose.  If you know of someone in need of mentoring in Chicago’s West Side, Humboldt Park, Logan Square and Hermosa contact me.  I don’t have an agenda but it is something I am pondering about.  Thank you for your support