make a lasting impact as a volunteer

Together, we can create lasting memories for families experiencing loss.

AFFILIATED PHOTOGRAPHERS

The professional-level photographs you will provide can turn a hidden pain into healing for bereaved families, bring awareness to a community, and provide a sense of honor to you.

Our Affiliated Photographers walk alongside families during some of their only moments with their babies. The majority of our sessions take place at hospitals and all photos are gently retouched in black and white.

The Affiliated Photographer position requires an application and evaluation of photography and lighting skills.

DIGITAL RETOUCH Artists

Are you a digital retouch artist with a passion for making a difference?

By lending your retouching talents, you can play a crucial role in bringing comfort and solace to those who need it most. Apply now and let your skills shine for a purpose that truly matters. Together, we can create moments that last a lifetime.

DISPATCHERS

Join our team as a dispatcher and play a pivotal role in connecting families with our compassionate services.

In this role, you’ll professionally and sensitively handle phone requests, guiding hospitals and families through our Retouching Services and Medical Affiliate Program, especially when a photographer is not available.

APPLY

Explore the volunteer opportunities listed above and apply today. Make sure to carefully review all application requirements before submitting.

REVIEW

The NILMDTS Volunteer Application Committee will review your application within 2-4 weeks of submission. Digital Retouch Artists will receive an email with sample images to retouch.

APPROVAL

You will receive an email from NILMDTS with your acceptance status. Photographers may be asked for additional images to complete their application.

TRAINING

Approved volunteers will complete online training.

For more information on training, check out our volunteer FAQs.

WELCOME

Upon completion of training, you will connect with your local NILMDTS team and community of volunteers.

HEAR FROM OUR VOLUNTEERS

“I was nervous to join NILMDTS. I wasn’t sure I could handle the emotional part of capturing a session. I’m glad I was encouraged to give it a try though. I was surprised by how strong I am. It is still hard, but I can handle it. And, I know there is support from NILMDTS if I need to talk with someone.”

Jenn Cheesebrow

NILMDTS Volunteer since 2018

“Volunteering for NILMDTS has changed my life. It has made me a better photographer, editor, and has opened my life up to meeting so many amazing people. I am so incredibly grateful and honored to be able to capture these memories for each family I meet. I don’t have the words to express what exactly it means to me, but I can’t imagine my life now without NILMDTS. I am forever, a million times over, humbled by each and every session I do.”

Halé Adams

Affiliated Photographer

“Seeing the appreciation in a parent’s eyes at the end of a session is all I need for me to continue giving the gift of remembrance portraits. It has filled a place in my heart that I didn’t know was empty.”

Megan Bechtold

NILMDTS Volunteer since January 2019