Lao Children Fundraiser
Proceeds support the rebuilding of a school in Laos.
When: Thursday, June 5, 2008, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Brooks Institute - Cota Gallery, 27 E. Cota Street, Santa Barbara
Cost: Free
Age limit: Not available
Categories: Calendar of Fundraisers
Description: Brooks Institute hosts a fundraiser to help Brooks graduate, Bryan Watt, and his wife, Leila Srour, rebuild a school and children’s center in Laos. Brooks will hold a photographic exhibition of prints from May 26 to July 10th.
Bryan Watt graduated from Brooks Institute’s undergraduate program in December 1998. He then entered the graduate program and became a graduate assistant teaching the first two courses in the professional photography program. While he was a student, he spent time in Laos where he was overwhelmed by the desperate need of children in the area. Returning to the U.S. he inspired his wife, Dr. Leila Srour, to give up her pediatric practice in Santa Barbara and move to Laos to help these children in need. In May of 2002, they made the move and have lived and worked there ever since.
In the northern city of Muang Sing in Laos near the Chinese border, there is a temporary classroom structure built out of sticks with a thatched roof. The Watts’ current objective is to rebuild a permanent school with a children’s center for 286 children. Brooks Institute is dedicated to help them achieve this goal. On June 5, 2008 we will have a silent auction of prints donated from the alumni, staff, faculty, and friends of Brooks Institute in an effort to raise the $20,000 needed to complete the project.
Bryan Watt believes a socially responsible photographer leaves with a part of the subject’s soul; and in return, must give by helping those in need. Brian and Leila help to arrange medical care at the local, provincial, and national level, and have also helped Lao children to travel overseas for heart surgery and facial reconstruction. Bryan donates 100% of the profits he makes from his photography to support his cause while Leila donates her medical expertise to the children.
Phone: 805-690-7603
Event posted April 21, 2008
Last updated April 21, 2008
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