Best of Boston

The collaborative is a nonprofit group for inner-city teens dedicated to fostering creativity and self-esteem through photography. The center has both summer and year-round programs for teen students, who are encouraged to document what they see in their neighborhoods and homes. Fresh off a recent exhibit at Boston City Hall and a number of philanthropic awards, directors Carl Mastandrea and Ilana Krepchin run their organization with spirit and dedication. Best event: the yearly auction, which features works from such local heroes as William Wegman.