At Brandes Portraiture we try to get involved with many great charitable causes in the community to help support them financially. It’s a way we can use our talents as artists to benefit so many needs. Close to my heart are the people who work with Christian Associates International, a group that focuses on starting new churches in urban European cities. If you have ever visited a church in Europe on a Sunday morning, you have seen first hand how spiritually dead Europe really is.

We have friends who are a part of CAI who are working in Paris, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Florence and other cities to become part of the fabric of the culture, and help others to see how a person who loves Jesus lives out their life. I admire their dedication to loving the people with whom they come into relationship. I’ve heard great stories of our friends hosting groups of 50-75 locals in their small flats to celebrate holidays. Buying a Thanksgiving turkey in Paris isn’t cheap…$80 per turkey!

Two years ago we held an event at our Westlake Village studio to support CAI, and this year we are planning an even larger event. One Light will be held in both our Westlake Village studio, as well as our new Orange County gallery. For more information, please see the web announcement at: http://onelight.brandesportrait.com