In the heart of downtown Tampa, Florida Children First hosted its annual Advocates for Children Awards, a night dedicated to honoring those who fight tirelessly for the rights of children in the foster system. The event took place at the historic Tampa Firefighter’s Museum, a beautifully preserved building that once served as the city’s original fire station, built in 1911.
Wow—this building has some history! But unfortunately, I wasn’t able to slide down the fire pole. Maybe next time!
Tampa Event Photography
This marks my second time photographing this inspiring event, and it’s always an honor to be welcomed back to capture such meaningful moments.
A Night of Recognition and Celebration
The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, emotional tributes, and well-deserved recognition for the advocates making a difference in the lives of foster children. Award recipients included two former foster youth who aged out of the system and are now using their experiences to drive positive change.
As a photographer, moments like these are what make event photography so rewarding. From the gratitude on the faces of awardees to the engaged audience, every snapshot tells a story of dedication and hope.
The Power of Community
Beyond the awards, what stood out was the overwhelming sense of unity in the room. The people present—advocates, policymakers, and community leaders—are committed to making a lasting impact on the foster care system. Capturing their passion and purpose through my lens was truly fulfilling.
I hope you enjoy this photo set and get a glimpse into this powerful evening of advocacy and appreciation.