If you are in downtown Hillsboro, you may see the face of one of your neighbors in an unexpected way. Large black and white photos of local residents have popped up on the walls of local businesses as part of the “Hello Neighbor” Project. These striking portraits were taken by young photographers from South Meadows Middle School who worked with professional photographer and journalist Julie Keefe, learning to take photographs and conduct interviews.  A quote was selected from each interview to become an integral part of the portrait, adding further depth and perspective to the portraits. The tables were then turned when Keefe photographed and interviewed each of the students involved in the Project, giving us insight into the young people behind the cameras.

The goal of the “Hello Neighbor” Project is to present faces of the neighborhood through the eyes of its young people, and for the students to see that they have a place in their community. The portraits of “Hello Neighbor” challenge us to think about the stories behind the neighbors we pass every day. As student Juli Geddes reflected, “Just because you know someone’s name, it doesn’t mean you know their story.” So get to know a little bit more about your neighbors as you keep an eye out for the “Hello Neighbor” photo banners around town.

Check out all the portraits in the

"Hello Neighbor" Gallery

Click Here to learn more about the "Hello Neighbor" Project

Click Here to learn more about 4-H in Washington County