Futures Explored Inc’s Post

Without you, there is nothing. If you need help, or just someone to talk to, reach out. 🩷 #wellbeingmatters #eventindustry #eventfreelance #eventmanagement #eventoperations #freelance #awareness #support #love #musicsupport #audience #crew #help #music #business #career #environment #festival #event #mentalhealth #addiction #recovery

I'm thrilled to have written an article in the recent Drama & Theatre magazine on Generative AI and how it can be used within drama teaching. I share some strategies and ideas from the work I've been doing with Bindya Chauhan FCCT (She/Her) on this growing field of interest. #drama #drameducation #GenerativeAI #dramateaching

I am often asked why I left my performing arts studio, even though the pandemic was incredibly disruptive to our business, ability to offer performing opportunities, and lives. This gifted article link may shed some light on the subject. As it indicates, rising costs and real estate constraints are significant hurdles that are only increasing, causing theater companies to reduce programs, consolidate on season planning, and share space. This results in less work for artists as well as less art for the community they serve. We need MORE organizations to collaborate on space, co-productions, and community-building. We need more sustainable models moving forward, in order to provide meaningful arts programming. #theater #collaboration #community #sustainablemodels

I want to take a moment to highlight an incredible client doing truly meaningful work: Actors PLAYground. Amber Ryan Cepkauskas, the owner and creative director, along with her husband, Matt Cepkauskas, have poured their hearts into creating a space where kids can not only learn the art of theater but also build confidence, find their voices, and develop skills like empathy and teamwork. It’s not just about acting—it’s about helping young people grow into their authentic selves. Amber has deep roots in theater, and Actors PLAYground is her labor of love. This year, they’re going all in: leasing a space, casting shows and seeking grant funding to keep this dream alive. And they’re investing in doing it right—while still respecting the reality of a nonprofit budget. I’ve had the privilege of working with Amber and Matt before, and they are, simply put, amazing humans. And they surround themselves with talented, kind-hearted people who share their passion for helping kids thrive. Getting to collaborate with them on this journey has been a professional high point for me. As many of you know, youth activities are rarely about creating future stars—they’re about teaching life lessons. Theater teaches skills that carry kids forward for life: confidence, collaboration, creativity. Amber and Matt know this, and they’ve built something special that deserves our attention. If you’re looking for a way to support a local nonprofit that’s making a difference in kids’ lives, I highly encourage you to learn more about Actors PLAYground—and if you're so inclined, consider donating to help them continue this important work. Learn more and donate here: https://lnkd.in/gbzXGMeJ   #YouthTheater #Nonprofit #CommunitySupport #ActorsPLAYground #GivingBack #ConfidenceThroughTheater #SupportLocalTheater

Start your week with "What We're Reading: Issue 8." 🔍 In this edition, we explore: -The power of storytelling in fundraising and how to craft compelling narratives that resonate with donors. -Strategies for engaging and retaining mid-level donors, an often-overlooked but critical segment of your donor base. -The impact of artificial intelligence on the nonprofit sector and how to harness its potential for your organization. -Insights on the future of corporate social responsibility and what it means for nonprofit partnerships. -Tips for creating a more inclusive and equitable fundraising strategy that reflects the diversity of your community. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gJpVxFpU #FundraisingInsights #NonprofitLeadership #DonorEngagement #InclusiveFundraising #FutureOfPhilanthropy

Instead, embrace virtual film festivals. Once embracing them starts working, start connecting with stories that move you, from every corner of the globe. This is always a better path forward, enhancing understanding through cinema. Accessibility isn't just a buzzword; it's about real people getting real opportunities to enjoy global cinema. 🌍🎬 Our virtual film festivals break barriers, offering a front-row seat to everyone, especially those with mobility challenges. Let's inspire, share, and grow together. 🙌 Comment if you love global cinema, or share your own story of how accessibility has touched your life. Donate to support LifeLine Service Dogs. #CinemaForAll #InclusiveCinema #GlobalStories

💸 FUNDING: Up to £25,000 💸 #Film #TV #Cinema Black and Global Majority Talent in the UK Audiovisual Industry Deadline for first round: 30th June 2024 If you are a Black and Global Majority owned or led organisation or production company who works behind the scenes in film, TV, or cinema, then you may be eligible to apply for a Reel Impact grant of up to £25,000. ____ Reel Impact is a new programme of support for Black and Global Majority individuals and Black and Global Majority-led production companies and organisations working behind the scenes in film, TV and cinema in the UK. The programme offers grants to support skills and leadership development, and networking opportunities, all with the aim of addressing systemic racism in the industry. Grants of up to £10,000 are available for individuals and up to £25,000 for organisations. Applications are invited from: ⚫ Black and Global Majority individuals and organisations who exist to uphold anti-racism practices in the industry. ⚫ Black-led or owned production companies or organisations, running existing, new and innovative projects who want to scale up, build sustainability or enhance their capacity to provide support, opportunities and inspiration for Black and Global Majority Talent. ⚫ Black and Global Majority individuals, wanting to enhance their career, and those of others. The funder is defining Black and Global Majority to mean people who are Black, Asian, Brown, dual-heritage, indigenous to the global south, and/ or have been racialised as ‘ethnic minorities’. Applications for the first round of funding are open until 30 June 2024. https://lnkd.in/e-TKdzuM

Attention charity filmmakers! Time is precious when it comes to capturing your audience's attention. To ensure your message is clear, pay attention to your shot framing and background choices. When interviewing people, opt for interesting, yet uncluttered backgrounds that convey the essence of your film. Let's make sure our stories are heard loud and clear! #charityfilm #storytelling #filmproduction

Another opportunity to see Doug Menuez' "Because of You, I Am" Film! FOR A FILM SCREENING of “Because of You, I am” by filmmaker and artist Doug Menuez and executive producer Pear Urushima. The film is a short documentary about Roy and PJ Hirabayashi, founders of San Jose Taiko and pioneers of North American taiko, a form of drumming with roots in Japanese culture that is influenced by other notable genres. Taiko is more than a musical form for the Hirabayashis – it is about way of life and a medium of expression that allows you to find your voice. Following the film screening, Pear, Doug, PJ and Roy, will have a conversation about the film, PJ & Roy's 50 years of taiko, and what’s next for them. How to Join: LINK IN BIO - Please note that you must be signed in to your AARP.org account or create an account to register for events. AARP membership is not required. https://lnkd.in/gCnvuDRV

Attention charity filmmakers! Time is precious when it comes to capturing your audience's attention. To ensure your message is clear, pay attention to your shot framing and background choices. When interviewing people, opt for interesting, yet uncluttered backgrounds that convey the essence of your film. Let's make sure our stories are heard loud and clear! #charityfilm #storytelling #filmproduction