The VII Foundation

The Blue Chip Foundation collaborates with the VII Foundation, a leading non-profit organization, to create impactful media and educational initiatives that address pressing global issues. Through a focus on documentary filmmaking, social impact, and education, these organizations bring attention to critical topics like poverty, human rights, and environmental challenges.

Co-founded in 2001 by renowned photographers Ron Haviv and Gary Knight, the VII Foundation builds on its roots in photojournalism and documentary storytelling. It funds and produces original documentary projects, and innovative educational fellowship, and mentorship programs for aspiring creative artists committed to advancing social impact through storytelling.



Advancing Advocacy Through Documentary Work

The VII Foundation is dedicated to producing impactful media that sheds light on complex global issues. Its diverse portfolio includes photo essays, documentary films, exhibitions, books, and educational programs designed to inspire advocacy and drive meaningful action. By addressing critical topics such as peace, war, health, and poverty, the foundation underscores the power of storytelling as a tool for change.

At the heart of these efforts is the VII Foundation's two-year fellowship program, which empowers emerging talents from underrepresented communities. The program prioritizes participants from diverse political, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in media representation. Fellows are paired with seasoned educators, filmmakers, and creative professionals who provide mentorship, helping participants refine their media production and storytelling skills while advancing their careers. Networking opportunities, collaborations, and exposure to leaders in the creative fields further enhance their professional growth.



Collaboration for Social Change

The Blue Chip Foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting VII Foundation's mission. Together, we have undertaken groundbreaking projects, such as a series of five short films and a book created during the final year of the Millennium Villages Project (MVP). This collaboration also includes an exhibition of photographs showcased at the United Nations and other venues across the United States, bringing attention to the transformative power of media in addressing global challenges.

Beyond the MVP, the Blue Chip Foundation continues to support bold initiatives, including funding for VII Foundation's upcoming documentary project, The Peace Project. This highly anticipated work looks closely at global conflict resolution and peace-building efforts, further exemplifying the transformative impact of documentary filmmaking. Jennifer Gross, an esteemed advocate for social impact and education, serves on the VII Foundation's Board of Trustees, cementing the partnership between these two trailblazing organizations.



Inspiring a New Generation of Changemakers

Through their combined efforts, the Blue Chip Foundation and VII Foundation are not just telling stories—they are empowering a new generation of changemakers. By providing resources, mentorship, and platforms for diverse voices, these organization are leveraging the art of documentary filmmaking to create lasting social impact and promote solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges, including poverty.