On February 27th, 2019, I filled in as substitute photographer for a cover shoot with Cascade Living. The scheduled photographer was sick, and I promptly rearranged my schedule for that afternoon.
My subject was Maurice Townsend, who had been a runner up on American Idol, and his 5 children. Maurice is now in charge of an after school music ministry for children at New City Kids in Grand Rapids, MI.
I think you can tell by these photos that Maurice exudes a warmth, and love of music, that he shares with his family and the children impacted by this program. While I was there, I saw kids arrive via buses, caregivers and walking. There was a kitchen with snacks. Coats and boots lined walls and hallways. A large group of children were gathered in the church basement and jubilantly sang about Fractions! The older kids are leaders now and there was a real enthusiasm about community, singing, praying, and learning!
Classrooms and the Church, though in need of repair and better lighting, were stocked with musical instruments, and inspirational quotes.
Maurice's own children were delightful and polite and I was glad I got the opportunity to work with all of them!
He may not have won the show, but he is truly an American Idol.
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