How did the Heart Gallery began?
The idea for the Heart Gallery project started as a means to raise awareness about adoption and find homes for older children and sibling groups in protective custody with the New Mexico Children, Youth & Families Department (CYFD). The project was implemented by CYFD recruiter Diane Granito when she was hired as a grassroots recruiter for Santa Fe and eight other New Mexico counties. She developed the idea from photographer (and adoptive mother) Cathy Maier Callanan to have talented photographers create inspiring portraits of older children and sibling groups who were waiting for adoption. Since funds were limited, it was necessary to obtain donations of many of the necessary goods and services. As a first time project, organizing and implementing the exhibit was a hands-on learning experience. Dianes first step, after naming the project, was to approach the Gerald Peters Gallery, where Lisa Bronowicz gave Diane an enthusiastic yes to hosting the event. The energy and generosity of th
