Events

Kaleidoscope

Intent: Community building and fundraising event for 400 participants at the Skirball Cultural Center’s Taper Courtyard in Los Angeles.

Design Choices: 60’s theme paralleled the school’s unique and independent vision as well as self identification as “a bunch of hippies”. Courtyard transformations included large projection screen suspend over reflective pond, multi-media display, lighting elements, spin art station, specialty food carts, signature cocktails, and thematic give-aways. Thematic food referenced San Francisco in the 60’s and engaged attendees with assisted choices and fun diy customizations. Colorful tie-dye table covers morphed cocktail tables into multifunction works of art and table displays encouraged engagement and conversation.

Result: Testimonials streamed in following the event gushing about how connected participants felt to the organization and how perfectly the event highlighted everything the organization embodies. Volunteerism tripled in the weeks following and fundraising goals were met and exceeded.

Refugees International

Intent: Fundraising and information disseminating event for 350 (adult) attendees at the University Child Development School in Seattle.

Design Choices: Clean lines and minimalist design created a simple and reassuring environment for discussing atrocities endured by refugees. The event highlighted original piano and violin composition written as a gift to the organization inspired by the plight of displaced persons. Food and lighting remained calming and authentic, and participants were encouraged to engage with the struggle through the music. Celebrity guests partook in multimedia presentation which educated participants prior to the ask of support. Pre-performance reception allowed for connection and mingling and sponsors attend in support.

Result: Fundraising goals were met and the regional mailing list grew by 330%

CO27 Retreat

Intent: Celebration of group and organization and appreciation event for 150 participants at El Capitan Canyon Resort in Santa Barbara.

Design Choices: Authentic, rustic, comfortable intimate gathering required opportunity for engagement for the group and also for smaller groups. Shared meals, catered and group-made, allowed for mass gathering and a sense of community. Free, unstructured time was enhanced by hikes, barnyard visits, board game stations and sports equipment allowing smaller groups of adults to connect authentically. Themed sweatshirts, slideshows from previous years and centralized, comfortable, rustic community area created unity and an overwhelming sense of peace, calm and togtherness. Natural beauty was enjoyed through encouraged but spontaneous hikes, beach walks and yoga.

Result: Group cohesion exemplified by a dramatic drop in attrition, increase in volunteerism, and improvement in fundraising participation.