Athletes photographed for golf tournament to benefit the Special Olympics.

A couple of years ago I was given the opportunity to meet some very special people — Special Olympians. I photographed these athletes for a series of promotional ads to benefit the Special Olympics. As journalists, we always want to give a voice to those who need to be heard. This was different, I was not looking for a story but still making a difference through photography. Usually, I hope my photos change people’s lives but it was the people I photographed who changed mine instead.

Everyone of those athletes had the most amazing spirit and attitude towards life. Inspired, I continue to work with nonprofit groups, schools and organizations I feel make a difference.

Recently, my wife and I came up with an idea to not only give back but to invite others to join in as well. Hence the Z Project — an initiative to advance the work of the people we are photographing.

While our intent is to spur a sense of community involvement, just forwarding information to the right people can make a difference. That is the reasoning behind the project, enlightening others by spreading the word.

Everyday, we make a decision to step in and help or step aside believing it is someone else’s responsibility to take action. Those that choose to lend a hand, do so in their own way — either by donating money, time or skills.

So this is our invitation to you, when the time comes, what will you do?

Special thanks goes to our friends Jeff and Bevin Shaw who designed the Z Project logo and started us on our way.