Hope in Shadows is a unique project based around a photography contest and exhibition for residents in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. The prize-winning photos are then used to create a calendar that gives a glimpse of the hope, spirit and courage of people living in Canada's poorest neighbourhood.

Hundreds of Downtown Eastside residents turn out to participate in the contest, the awards ceremony and the gallery exhibition of the photos, making this a vibrant community event.

Hope in Shadows fosters local arts and culture, gives residents a sense of pride in their community and builds confidence in participants and photography winners. The exhibition, calendar and high profile media attention promotes understanding of the people who live in this impoverished neighbourhood.

Finally, the selling of the calendar helps hundreds of people financially, and through providing tangible work experience.