Paraiso March 4, 2011

On March 4th, Gallery 5 presents Paraiso, a documentary photograph exhibition to benefit VCU’s HOMBRE organization.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)’s Honduras Outreach Medical Brigada Relief Effort (HOMBRE) has been providing medical care and community development assistance to marginalized communities in Honduras since 2000. During that time, HOMBRE has expanded to serve multiple communities in Honduras and in the Dominican Republic. As a result of HOMBRE’s efforts, each year nearly 1,500 adults and children receive check-ups and medications free of charge thanks to volunteer physicians, pharmacists, and students from VCU’s School of Medicine and School of Pharmacy. In order to provide this care, though, HOMBRE must be able to purchase needed medications and supplies and pay for necessary in-country costs. Each participant pays their own way (through donations and community support) in order to ensure the necessary equipment and medications will be available for the communities HOMBRE works with.

Join HOMBRE at Gallery 5 on the evening of March 4th to learn firsthand about the work HOMBRE does and about the value of the experience for medical and pharmacy students. Gallery 5 is graciously hosting an exhibition of photographs from participating communities. Captured by students, health workers and local children, these images portray these communities and the people that live there with great depth and insight. Participants from past HOMBRE trips will be present to discuss the photos and the project. We will also be screening a preview of Bryce Spivey’s HOMBRE documentary.

Copies of the prints will be available for sale, and donations are welcome. Refreshments will be served.

Official Website: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gallery5/59016522192#!/event.php?eid=143654939031662