The Front Porch Project

On March 23rd, Indiana and many other state governors activated the state at home orders to limit the coronavirus spread. Indiana residents have been asked to shelter at home, restrict interaction to only immediate households, and for all non-essential activities and business to be put on hold.

The Front Porch Project was my way to bring a sense of connection to our community between families, friends, and their loved ones (maintaining a safe distance of six feet) during the time of COVID-19 social distancing. As a photographer, I wanted to create a message of positivity and, most importantly, create awareness that our community might be closed, but our hearts are open. We are #strongertogether.

Amidst all the growing chaos, I wanted to use positivity to create a foundation of support in our community, and it helped lift each other. During the times of social distancing, we were working from home, becoming home-school teachers for our children, and staring at computers. The Front Porch Project gave our community something to look forward to, a way to visually see friends and family members they missed due to social distancing, and to get out of the house and take in the fresh air.

Over six weeks, I walked through the neighborhoods in Vincennes, covered countless miles, and documented over 500 families on their front porches. I gained a sense of community and spirit. So many stories have been shared, and many said, “You’ve given me a reason to smile and something to look forward too.” I captured so many smiles, defiantly; the community I live in definitely made me smile.