Charlotte Rosario is the founder of Community Photobooth, an organization that uses photography to unite neighborhoods and amplify voices. At just twelve years old, Charlotte transformed personal grief into purpose, creating a youth-led initiative that raises awareness and resources for causes ranging from wildfire recovery to youth mental health advocacy.

She is Defeat the Streets’ newest Everyday Hero. In her conversation with us, Charlotte shared how the loss of her father and the challenges of a global pandemic sparked a vision rooted in hope, connection, and resilience.

Community Photobooth

Community Photobooth empowers young photographers to use their talents as tools for philanthropy. Through their annual month-long fundraiser, they shine a light on critical issues—from the devastation of California wildfires to the urgent need for youth mental health support. Nationally recognized, the initiative proves that creativity and compassion can combine to spark real change.

Charlotte’s Story

In the midst of losing a parent and navigating the uncertainty of the pandemic, Charlotte sought a way to bring light to others. Photography became that light. With each project, she has not only built awareness but also inspired her peers to see their hobbies as tools for good. As Charlotte says, “You can make a difference simply by doing what you love.”

Her words echo the spirit of true change-makers: “There are so many invisible struggles, and my hope is for more people to focus their energy—whether through cameras, hearts, or hands—on making those struggles visible and supporting those in need.”

Everyday Heroism

With the support of her own personal hero—her mom—Charlotte continues to break stigmas around mental illness, uplift communities, and model what it means to be a philanthropist at any age. To her, an everyday hero is “someone who takes small, consistent action to uplift those around them…someone who simply cares deeply and selflessly to make the world a better place.”

Charlotte Rosario reminds us that everyday heroism is not about age or circumstance—it’s about choosing to care, to create, and to act. Through Community Photobooth, she is capturing hope and creating a ripple effect of change that inspires us all.