Quadriplegic Mike Becker photographs his way through Chicago (AUDIO)

By Ellen Kobe

Several years ago, Catholic Charities Chicago gave disposable cameras to many of their homeless and at-risk-of-homelessness dinner guests, encouraging them to take photos of the city from their perspectives. One of the participants was Mike Becker, who is a quadriplegic. The experience taught Mike a hobby he now loves and empowered him to explore Chicago — even when it’s hard.

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Catholic Charities held its 13th annual After Supper Visions photo exhibit in June. Photographs by the exhibit’s 64 artists, including Becker, are available for purchase online.

Photo at top: Mike Becker, a quadriplegic man who takes pictures all over Chicago, became interested in his hobby through a photography program offered by Catholic Charities. (Ellen Kobe/Medill)