Grand Island photographer takes initiative to create a fundraiser for Buffalo's Crisis Services

Elizabeth Snyder, owner of Elizabeth Snyder Photography on Grand Island, is hosting a pin-up calendar launch party from 7-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 12, at the Atrium in the Market Arcade to benefit Buffalo's Crisis Services.

The calendar, which was a collaborative event with other Western New York businesses, features 12 local models who donated their time to help support this effort.

The 1950s-inspired calendar fundraiser is in effort to give back to the Buffalo community in celebration of ESP's 10th year in business.

"Crisis Services is a program that is very important to me both personally and professionally, " Snyder said. "After the last 18 months of increased home isolation, more than ever people are needing emotional help. Giving back to the community by raising awareness and funds for Crisis Services felt like a great way for me to celebrate my company's anniversary."

Shot on location in August at the Powerhouse of Buffalo, Snyder teamed up with photographer Susan Kehl; make-up and hair artists from Blush Hair and Makeup of North Tonawanda; Cats Like Us, a Tonawanda-based vintage clothing store; and two East Aurora businesses, Little Finch Party Styling for balloon backdropping and Pizza DelAurio's for use of its vintage car.

Calendars will be sold for $20 at the free launch party. Retro snacks from the Yum Truck and models will be available for signing at the event. To preorder a calendar, email [email protected].

Crisis Services of Buffalo and Erie County was designed to fill the community's need for an innovative unit that would explore new methods of treating and assisting people in emotional crises through a variety of therapeutic services. Offering this area a 24-hour crisis hotline, people in need can call 716-834-3131 to connect with a counselor.

Elizabeth Snyder Photography is a full-service portrait studio whose mission is to uplift clients through the art of photography.