Video productions teacher CJ Haydock and student Jonathan Bingman, ’08, plan to partner with two organizations, the Fresno Rescue Mission (FRM) and the Marjaree Mason Center (MMC), to create a documentary.

Film education defines a documentary as any film or program which includes some factual element, such as investigative programs focused on child abuse or AIDS in Africa.

“It is exciting to be working with these professional organizations because it is a real world experience,” Haydock said. “It is preparing our students with job talents. These are hands on experiences that they are working with.”

A Christian program, the FRM has provided food, clothing and housing for the homeless or those struggling with money problems since 1949.

“In a real world setting, they will learn how to interact on a professional level and provide professional service,” Haydock said. “It will provide them with great business opportunities.”

The MMC, a shelter and counseling program for women and children victims of abuse, aims to eliminate domestic violence.

“Anytime we can partner or be of service with these organizations it benefits us,” Haydock said. “It’s also good for our school because it gets us noticed.”

Bingman, ’08, a two-year video productions veteran, will assist Haydock with the production, filming at different locations outside the classroom and editing during class.

“I do not know much about this video so far,” Bingman said. “I am excited though. It is a great opportunity.”

The two organizations contacted Haydock claiming to have heard about his program.

“Both of these places contacted me,” Haydock said. “They told me we were capable of making professional-looking videos, which is pretty cool.”

Last school year the video production class produced films and entered them into the SlickRock Film Festival and were finalists.

Mitchell Callisch, ’09, strives to use his ability to produce professional projects. Callisch boasts work on numerous videos including the class of ’09 Night of the Stars, The Rift, Mr. FC and Remember Easter.

“I’ve always made videos,” Callisch said. “I love it because it helps me pursue my dream. I?m definitely looking forward to making professional projects.”

The media class also partnered with the Police Activity League to produce videos.

For those who are not able to work on the video productions content can also volunteer for the two organizations in other ways. Please contact Justin Red from the MMC at 1-800-640-0333 or 559-237-4706. Allen Stewart from the FRM can be reached at 559-268-0839, ext. 106.