Collective Lens: Photography for Social Change

Two men hang out the opening in their makeshift "Casa" in La Carpio, a slum town south of San José, la Pura Vida's capital. As a volunteer travel member with Soles4Souls, I was able to help the people of this resilient community founded by Nicaraguan refugees. Besides fitting over 700 citizens with new shoes, our group had the rare experience of roaming the unpaved roads of what is thought of to be one of the most dangerous areas of the country. I beg to differ. Big time. Kind, gracious, and warm, the impoverished citizens of La Carpio may not have much in the form of material things, but they do have "el corazón".

These men were watching us play with the street children as we handed out bubbles and stickers. This photo speaks volumes. Forced to leave their countries to give their family and children a better life in Costa Rica, many of the young mothers and fathers only remember machetes as toys used in coffee plantations. While I am sure they were happy to see the children being doted over, one can't help but wonder what pain lurks behind those smiles. Some people truly make the ultimate sacrifices.

The bubbles floated up in to the frame just as I shot the photo. Dubbed the "Village of Hope", I believe these orbs of soap represent a new era and rights for the people of La Carpio. Learn more about my trip here: thebestshoesarefree.com I will be returning in May and uploading more photos soon.