Giving charity a shot

Published Nov. 21, 2012
By Airman 1st Class Madelyn Brown
60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In a tightly knit community, whether it be the Air Force or local area, people join together to make the environment better for everyone, especially those less fortunate.

One former Travis Airman has discovered a creative way to turn her passion into charity.

Brianna Gamble, a current military spouse, has utilized her talents and abilities in photography to help others in Solano County through the support of local families and the Vacaville Opportunity House.

After finishing her enlistment in the Air Force, Gamble began her own photography business and knew from the beginning that some form of charity would be incorporated. She discovered the Vacaville Opportunity House through their thrift store, where she would frequently shop for photography supplies and do-it-yourself crafts.

"I started researching what the Opportunity House was all about," Gamble said. "I love how it's not only a safe place for people to stay, but they are proactive in helping people to get back on their feet and into jobs and homes. Their mission really stuck out to me in a sea of charities, and I just knew I wanted to help them out."

From here, her inspiration for the Dream Calendar was born.

"I think Brianna chose to use her talent to create this Dream Calendar because she wants to inspire others to dream and take action to make a difference," said Tamara Leon, Gamble Photography marketing manager. "It all starts with a dream."

The 2013 calendar consists of photos taken by Gamble of children from Solano County. Because families volunteered to be in the calendar, and even pulled together and provided support to get the dream calendar published, 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Vacaville Opportunity House.

"We have businesses all over Solano County selling the calendars in their stores," Gamble said. "There are also a few people who have volunteered their time to going out and selling the calendars and helping us spread the word."

The extensive support Gamble and her team have received is a reflection of the passion herself and the community hold for this cause.

The Vacaville Opportunity House was selected out of many charities because it not only helps the charity recipient, but also is community-based and is focused on bringing local families and businesses together for a great cause.

Gamble's dedication to this project has been a major factor in its success, Leon said. She has found a great way to give back to the community and support a group that is often forgotten with her beautiful photos.

Having lived the Air Force core values throughout her military service, Gamble explains how they have carried over into her civilian life and business.

"Having integrity with clients and always doing what is right by them is just second nature," Gamble said. "Always striving for excellence, not mediocrity has been a huge part of my civilian life and business. Going the extra mile for my clients and never giving a subpar product has been the basis of my success. I'm always using my 'service before self' value to put the needs of my business and my clients on the front burner."

In this charity project that has taken off, Gamble has discovered this is more about more than donating money.

"The intention was to donate money to a deserving local charity, but to also inspire others to get involved with their communities and donate their time and talents to giving back," Gamble said. "We tend to forget that we all have the capability to make a difference - it just takes courage to take the first step."

The Dream Calendars are sold for $10 and can be shipped directly to an address or picked up locally. Visit www.brianngamble.com for more information about where to pick one up, the Vacaville Opportunity House and details about how to submit your children for the 2014 calendar.

courtesy photo