March 9, 2005
A local photography duo is using their camera to raise money for the police.
Behind a tiny storefront on the downtown mall are Bruce and Robin Pfeifer, the owners of the Mountain Air Gallery. Besides selling art, the couple most recently embarked on a new opportunity; using their other business, photography, to help groups in need.
"We thought about the tsunami, but so many jumped on that," said Pfeifer.
Then they thought, why not help those out in their own community? That's when they remembered the 'Cops and Kids' program.
"I had some dealings with law enforcement when I was younger so I have a soft spot for the police department, " said Pfeifer.
Since 2002, the Charlottesville 'Cops and Kids' program has assisted local underprivileged kids as well as families of fallen police officers. Funds are always needed, which is why the Pfiefers chose to give them a portion of their photography sales.
Wayne Jones, president of the 'Cops and Kids' program, said he's thrilled.
He remarked, "It's great, it's wonderful. Bruce has stepped up to the plate. I hope that other businesses in the area will take his initiative."
Call it initiative, or as Bruce likes to think, a way to pay it forward: "Everybody wins with this deal, so I figure if we're going to make money in the community, we can also bring it back in to the community."
The couple will continue supporting the program through March 31st.
