Shoot This Not That – Toledo Youth Behind the Lens Students Learn Drone Photography from Members of the Toledo Police Department
Last month, David Bush, Commissioner of Youth Services, welcomed members of the Toledo Police Department to help lead a hands-on drone photography lesson for the second cohort of participants in the Shoot This Not That program. The youth-centered initiative uses photography, storytelling, and media arts as tools for healing, expression, and advocacy, particularly for young people impacted by gun violence. Through the program, participants document their experiences and reimagine safer, stronger communities.
The second session also includes the creation of public service announcements—giving kids a platform to speak directly to their peers through social media. Their work will be showcased in a fall exhibit, and each student receives a $150 stipend. One young man has already landed a summer job through the program. Organizers say the goal is not just to inspire—but to equip. As David Bush puts it, “We’re not just patting them on the back—we’re giving them resources to succeed.”
📢😊 This is what David Bush said about the program:
“This is the second session of Shoot This Not That. Last time, we focused on documentary photography. This time, we’re adding drones and taking the program to a whole new level. We had five students in the first group—now we have eleven—and we want to keep growing.
This is going to help them with life skills. Many of these kids have lost family members. This gives them a space to be around others who are going through similar things and to know they can create change in their community.
I’m passionate about this because I understand the environment these kids are growing up in. Just because you’re from the inner city doesn’t mean you have to be part of what you see. You can be part of the change. This program helps young people do exactly that.”
📢😊 This is what TPD Officer Prince Flores said about the event:
“We were asked to come out to help with the Shoot This Not That program, and for us, it’s a great opportunity. Being able to connect and talk to youth in the city is extremely important.
Teaching them something we already know and love—like using drones—is something we look for. It’s a meaningful way to build trust and give back.”
