OpenStage’s own board president, Bas Meindertsma, has generously committed to a $500 matching gift donation with his family in honor of Colorado Gives 2023. Meindertsma stated, “OpenStage Theatre & Company believes theatre opens the heart and mind. They have certainly opened mine! I have loved working with this family of amazing artists over the past 10 (!) years and creating engaging theatrical experiences together. This year I want to step up my commitment to them by $1,000 matching campaign.” His fundraiser, titled “Be A Part of Unmatched Passion!” can be found here: https://www.coloradogives.org/story/Bmeindertsma2023 and donations will count towards the match until the end of Colorado Gives Day on December 5.
Other volunteers and staff members of the organization have also organized their own fundraisers in honor of OpenStage. Jessica Kroupa, the new Managing Director for the organization as of August 2023 has set an ambitious goal of $500 for her first year in her new role. ““I love working for OpenStage because it adheres to many of my values as an arts administrator. They truly bring something special to Fort Collins and maintain a high standard of quality work in Northern Colorado,” said Kroupa. Her fundraiser, titled, “Be A Part of a Thriving Arts Scene” can be found at: coloradogives.org/story/Jkroupaostc2023
Company member Bryn Frisina, started a fundraiser as well titled “Be a Part of Something Creative!” with a $250 goal. Frisina has worked with OpenStage since 2018 and currently serves as the volunteer Company Manager. You may have seen her as Elinor in “Sense and Sensibility” where she received the OPUS Award for Outstanding Actress for her performance. Her fundraiser is located at: www.coloradogives.org/story/Bfrisina2023
Brys Scotland, Marketing Manager and resident graphic designer for the organization started her fundraiser called, “Be a Part of Something Creative” in hopes to raise $250. Scotland said, “OpenStage Theatre & Company has been a creative home of mine for over 7 years now. Any donation, no matter how big or small, helps to provide a creative home to an actor, artist, playwright, designer, and so much more. The Northern Colorado community is better because OpenStage is there.” Scotland’s fundraiser is linked here: www.coloradogives.org/story/Bscotland2023
Finally, Brenna Freestone-Gilbert, daughter of OpenStage’s original founders and business owner of local business Bloom Floral Boutique is hosting a fundraiser for a second consecutive year. Her fundraiser titled, “Be a part of this fabulous Performing Arts Family!” also as a goal to raise $250 and can be found at: https://www.coloradogives.org/story/Bfreestone2023
Altogether, all 5 organized fundraisers have the potential to raise a total of $2,250 for OpenStage. The dedication of the various board, staff, and volunteer members help to highlight the community’s love for such a prominent nonprofit organization in the Fort Collins community. OpenStage is beyond fortunate for the support and is cheering on all fundraisers in hopes that they can reach their goals!