Bettering Life Through Video: Day in the Life of a Video Volunteer

Graduating during such a phenomenally absurd year has been interesting, to say the least. I graduated with a BA in Media Arts Design and Technology and wanted to do something creative involving cameras. I soon learned that my want may have to be put on the back burner because of the need for a job, any job. So I have been eager on the job search since January with much potential but nothing finite. The lack of jobs makes sense in this market, but it still can be frustrating when I’m trying to figure out my next move. Since I was having little luck in the job-searching department for months-on-end, my mother suggested looking into volunteer positions. Yes, she was the one who sent me the link for this exact position. Thanks, Mom. 

I started as an intern about a month ago with illuminAid’s new initiative UnshelteredTV. I have been pleasantly surprised with how much I have learned thus far. I have gone out into the Chico area and shot well-thought-out footage for infographic videos. Along with shooting meaningful B-roll, we have also shot interviews of local Chico service workers to relay their important message to their communities. The other side of this position is editing the videos, scripts, and sometimes the website. I enjoy being able to be plugged in for when I am editing which is very easy to do in the environment of the office. The office is very friendly and filled with plants and natural lighting. It is very easy to talk about the video process with the team, something I appreciate. 

Recently we have been focused on creating videos to spread the word about the safety precautions of COVID-19 for people experiencing homelessness in Chico. We’ve made videos covering mask-wearing, social distancing, and washing of the hands to help slow the spread of the virus. With the new initiative of UnshelteredTV, illuminAid has taken a more local approach to helping the community. 

I have learned about other projects that illuminAid has done in the past from around the world which is truly inspiring. To be a part of a team that cares about bettering the life of people through video is not something I saw myself doing. I thought I would be making boring videos for a company that wasn't cool just to pass the time. I feel lucky to be able to have this position during this time, as it helps me focus my attention on something productive instead of drowning in the news. It has urged me to get more involved in the community after realizing some problems my fellow Chicoans experience. Working with illuminAid made me recognize something I didn't know I wanted to do.