2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Ripple Effect Artists, Inc.

1,071 Pageviews Read Stories

Claim This Nonprofit

Nonprofit Info

 

 

Add to Favorites

Share this Nonprofit

Donate

Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Alliances & Advocacy, Arts & Culture, Humanities, Theater

Mission: Ripple Effect Artists Inc. addresses injustice and causes social impact through art - primarily by producing masterful plays - presenting them along with talk-back discussions in partnership with educators and advocacy groups. These events, our education, and our game-changing philanthropy cultivate empathy, shift audiences from APATHY to ACTION, and create a RIPPLE EFFECT in the larger community.

Community Stories

62 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

mb5839123 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/12/2024

Ripple Effect Artists' goal is to create change through theater that provokes, engages, pushes us to think and inspire us to "make a difference". I cannot think of any other theater company so committed to the process of social change through theater.

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

09/19/2023

Ripple Effect's mission is to advance social change through theater; its productions can inspire and motivate its audiences to make a difference. I've been greatly moved by the productions I have seen including talk-back presentations that partner with educators and other organizations. Each of its productions donates a significant portion of box office proceeds towards Human Rights Organizations/Initiatives. I found Ripple Effect to be an organization that aligns with my values and world view.

MonicaBlaze Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/30/2023

This amazing company produces always produces excellent theatre with a theme that gives back to society. They educate the public on themes like sex trafficking, human rights and civil rights. Not only are their productions fantastic theatre, they give some proceeds to companies that give back to society.

AlchemyTheatrical Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/17/2023

They create really strong readings and full-performances. Cougar was a hoot! I have been watching this group grow over the years and I really enjoy what they do.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/11/2022

A great gathering of work pre and during the pandemic. Their return to stage with "Gideon's Knot" had me crying in my seat. Heart-felt. Powerful. Confronting,

Read more

Mmathison Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/10/2023

I am proud to have supported and witnessed the work of Ripple Effect Artists firsthand, through offering my experience volunteering in a human sex trafficking non profit organization and sharing my experience in a documentary Ripple Effect was producing. In my experience, this organization truly lives up to its name by creating a genuine ‘ripple effect’ in our community. They’ve been steadfastly committed to making a difference for 15 years. This organization has passion, consistency, and dedication to raising awareness and calling for action. Their efforts are not only impactful but also necessary in creating positive change in our society.

Bj5276 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/24/2023

This organization is fabulous with presenting plays that are socially and culturally spot on! The actors, directors, and producers do an amazing job! I highly recommend you attend one of their shows.

vwilli24 Board Member

Rating: 5

09/21/2023

I am honored to serve as a board member for Ripple Effect Artists (REA), and I wholeheartedly endorse this remarkable nonprofit organization. Founded on Jessie Fahay's profound love for theater and her vision of using it as a catalyst for transformative conversations, REA has evolved into a powerful force for change.

What truly sets REA apart is its unwavering belief in the potential of theater to inspire audiences to take meaningful action. The organization's careful curation of productions, its commitment to donating a significant portion of Box Office Proceeds to Human Rights Organizations/Initiatives, and its engaging Talk-Back Presentations with Partnering Organizations and Educators all exemplify REA's dedication to its mission. Moreover, REA's focus on student empowerment, international outreach, and fostering young talent demonstrates its holistic approach to leveraging the arts for positive global impact. It is an organization that not only honors the power of theater but also honors the artistry and social responsibility it entails. I am proud to be part of REA's mission and eagerly anticipate the continued positive change it will bring to generations to come.

1

dianeobenchain Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2023

By addressing life-impacting, under-discussed issues that affect our common humanity, such as emotionally-fraught parents, teachers, and students in today's torn public education, racial equity in practice, gender affirmation, reversing environmental abuse, human trafficking, suffering and the end-of-life, domestication of women, mechanical displacement of humans, and more, Ripple Effect Artists, Inc. (REA) uniquely brings to the theater talented, meaningful drama and talk-back discussion that propel audiences through empathy to action -- action that initiates transformative change, one ripple effect after another. Don't miss this opportunity not only to engage with diverse playwrights, actors, philanthropists, and more but also to add momentum to timely waves of social justice with your donor support that truly can reach around the world.

2

TheaterLove Board Member

Rating: 5

09/19/2023

An extraordinary organization that uses theatre the way it needs to be used.

2

nac2 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/18/2023

I have followed Ripple Effect Artists for years, observing the benefit they provide the community in the art of theater with social consciousness. What they have sought to promote in performances is complimented by the non-profit groups that speak to the given topic of a play to inform the audience about an issue. This compliments their goals to bring awareness to their audiences with direct information about the issues. Ripple Affect Artists, Inc. is a solid group of actors, strong supporters, and thus greeted by appreciated audiences. They work they do compliments the way of bringing ideas to everyone through the arts.

Previous Stories

Donor

Rating: 5

10/11/2022

I have been to several of the theatre performances presented by Ripple Effect Artists over the past 8 years. The social consciousness concept they use in selecting the plays they present is to be noted. Each play addresses a condition/issue that confronts all of us, is one part of their stated intention. The addition of the "Talk=backs" after the performance by an individual informed by the given issue, provides the audience with further awareness about the topic and ways to get involved. The outreach to the public they provide I find highly admirable. Everyone involved is dedicated to the art of theatre and the power of education.

Read more

cindyfahay Board Member

Rating: 5

09/18/2023

Ripple Effect Artists, Inc. (REA) uses the arts, primarily theater but also radio, film, spoken word, and dance to illuminate a social injustice such as race discrimination, LGBTQ discrimination, sex trafficking, women's rights, homelessness, and more so that the audience is moved to take action about the injustice they have just witnessed or heard. With talk backs from experts after each performance, audiences are given tools such as signing petitions or volunteering at shelters to actually take action for change. Moving from Apathy to Action is the REA motto and I have seen it work masterfully.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/11/2022

In June I had the opportunity to see one of Ripple Effect Artists productions on live theater in NYC once again. It was truly amazing as all of their performances have been for the past 12 years, and it felt doubly good to be able to honor the work REA non profit has done to be able to get back to live theater again. During the pandemic they focussed on 2 film productions, 6 radio programs including dance and poetry, in short they stayed alive spreading the message of their work which is using 'the Arts' as a means of communicating the social injustices in our society and the talk backs after each performance to discuss solutions.

Read more

ValentineTarisse Board Member

Rating: 5

10/31/2022

I adore Ripple Effect Artists! This women-founded & led organization creates and produces works steeped in mission and purpose. This non-profit prioritizes educating their audiences about worthy topics and other organizations doing the work within those topics. They ensure that a portion of ticket sale go to supporting other non-profits who are working in the community. On top of their mission-driven focus, they produce edgy, though-provoking, and fun stage and virtual work. Be sure to stay up-to-date with what REA is doing and tell a friend!

JimATA Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/30/2022

Their shows are powerful. Their talk-backs are very well done, too. I enjoy these production.

Previous Stories

Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/08/2021

One of the best mission statements in our field. Really proud of this group. They have survived their first decade - and that means a LOT. Here's to many more!

Jfah Board Member

Rating: 5

10/29/2022

An outstanding company with an incredible mission of partnership between performing arts-advocacy. And an incredibly hard-working group of volunteers. This is what non profits are supposed to be.

AmyLosi Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/26/2022

Ripple Effect Artists, Inc. uses art to create awareness of social issues. They educate their audiences through thoughtful and powerful theater, art, and discussion. The ripple effect of their work is increased empathy and a call to action that will hopefully bring about social change. And they are a talented group! Whether it's through touching stories, dance, or humor, you can't help but be moved and inspired.

ACordoba13 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/25/2022

Ripple Effect Artists have been presenting works that have tackled serious issues that often times, people don't want to talk about. The opportunities they offer artists as well are vast and sorely needed during the current climate. It's been a joy working with REA and I look forward to the many different projects they will present. They are highly recommended in my book.

gbergeret Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/19/2022

This is a really great organization - good theater that makes a difference, done well, focused on issues that matter. They partner with other non-profits that they donate a portion of proceeds to. The most recent show I saw, Gidion's Knot was partnered with Drawing & Talking that teaches coping skills for suicidal youth. Powerful stuff.

CarolBrook Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2022

They are true to their commitment to having many diverse voices and opportunities. My autistic teenage son was able to get a taste of filmmaking. My play on women's issues was able to have a scene shown as part of a night of works on women's issues. The zoom allows people to connect all over the country. They are flexible and make access easy.

kperm Board Member

Rating: 5

10/17/2022

Ripple Effect Artists (REA) is a great non-profit that is dedicated to social impact through theater and multimedia. REA is committed to promote change through awareness and dialogue. REA produces quality, thought-provoking material from individuals who really care about making a positive change through theater.

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

09/01/2021

Ripple Effect Artists (REA) is a great non-profit that is dedicated to social impact through theater and multimedia. REA is committed to promote change through awareness and dialogue. REA offers students a practical film production experience through an internship program. REA provides the public with productions that involve timely, critical social issues. REA strives to inspire audiences to make a difference!
REA board members and ambassadors give of their own time and dollars to ensure quality and relevant productions.
REA is an example of a first class non-profit organization.

pwslaw Advisor

Rating: 5

09/21/2021

I've known about this organization for several years and this year have joined the team. I thoroughly enjoy my colleagues' professionalism, enthusiasm, and dedication to help repair the world through the arts.

1

lavined Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/02/2021

REA has been producing visionary work with storytelling that isn't just compelling but important. Their commitment to making a difference is working. May their ripples keep flowing outward.

1

Mle Y. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/01/2021

Jesse Jennings Puentevella is a thoughtful and inspired Producer, Director, and Performing Artist. I look forward to all that comes.

1

SarinaTR Board Member

Rating: 5

09/01/2021

Ripple Effect Artists is the sort of organisation you imagine would exist in a perfect world. We do not live in Utopia but organisations like these make it seem like we are all here for a common goal. Ever heard of a nonprofit that donates? Yes, Ripple Effect Artists. A nonprofit that offers free internships?Yup, Ripple Effect Artists. Whilst the world catches up to the concepts of marrying arts with social reflections, Ripple Effect Artists has already got there and given us all something to aspire to.

1

kateg83 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/16/2021

Ripple Effect Artists has been such a fun and wonderful nonprofit to be involved in. I started helping them with radio shows in the summer of 2020, which was a great project to do during the pandemic. I love that they found a way to keep reaching and inspiring audiences during that difficult time. I got to meet members of the team in person for the first time at their benefit starring Gilbert Gottfried. It was strange that I had worked with them for so long and felt like I knew them so well, but had never seen them in person before! Their movie Here Comes Frieda was fantastic, and I’m excited to see their next one, Sin Fondo. Thank you Ripple Effect for continuing to make a difference through the arts!

2

KarlCuster General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/26/2020

Unrelenting in producing poignant and timely new pieces of theater that directly question impactful issues of the times. I've seen them tackle Climate Change, mental health, immigration and others topics with a fearless passion, and other companies would do well to push for the kind of moral obligation that Ripple Effect pushes.

2

Melissa N.7 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2020

I want to commend Ripple Effect Artists for their innovation and resilience during the pandemic. Ripple Effect has continued to highlight so many important issues -systemic racism, immigration, gender equality-by quickly shifting to virtual platforms. From original films displayed through zoom, original theater broadcast on the radio, and podcast interviews with artists speaking about how their art can raise awareness about important societal issues. And all the while, the quality of the productions has been of the highest caliber despite a world-wide pandemic and funding challenges.

2

Mia Ventura L. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/22/2020

I met Jessica at Theatre For The New City during a production. She is an immensely talented performer who is constantly innovatibg & seeking to give a voice to important matters. Ripple effect artists is not only a non profit sharing great stories about significant matters, It is a platform that seeks to help people & change the world one performance at the time. If you cross their path, you are extremely lucky & you are sure to learn a great deal.

2

Kallie M. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

Ripple Effect Artists has amazing productions and impactful conversations about the most pressing issues in our communities. The founders are truly inspiring and have moved audiences from apathy to action.

3

Kristen M.4 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

Ripple Effect Artists is doing the imperative work of utilizing the arts as a platform for social equality. It's no secret the many inequities that exist in the world, from gender and race to socioeconomic issues. What is so important about the work this company does is giving people real pause to ponder, process and envision what could be possible in a world that works for everyone.

2

Alvinator Donor

Rating: 5

10/14/2020

Excellent storytelling! Radio-dramas were very good. A satisfying throw-back during the pandemic. Way to stay active!

2

Chris T.7 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/13/2020

My wife and I were introduced to Ripple Effect Artists several years back when submitting her play "Starlight" for consideration in their Climate Crisis Season; having produced, directed, designed and performed under Equity Off Broadway, LORT, COST, SPT, TYA, LOA, URTA, Guest Artist & Staged Reading Contracts over the past five decades their Mission was unique in its annual focus on a single matter of international import and its conscious leveraging of each individual's gifts to create art that was much greater than the sum of its parts.

So when I was asked to join James Jennings, Duncan Christy, Ina Chadwick and a host of extraordinarily gifted artists in "Once Upon A Time... This Land Was Made For You And Me" and given the opportunity to present the works of Writer/Director Ina Chadwick, poet Jerry Johnson and troubadour Woody Guthrie I jumped at the opportunity, which climaxed with a combination of happening and hootenanny as artists and audience rose in a chorus of the titular tune channeling Blitzstein & Odets alike.

In the years since we've followed their work and enjoyed an eclectic mix of venues and forms, from radio play versions of "War of the Worlds" & "Johnny Got His Gun" to video projects like "Awake" that blend dance and music and theatre and life; we've had the privilege of working with Board Members Jessica Jennings & Ina Chadwick on outside theatre and radio projects in NYC and across the greater tri-state area, and their commitment to purposeful theatre with a social impact carries over to everything they're involved in.

In the end, however, they are most powerful when combined, creating performing art that, as Senator Robert F. Kennedy said in his Day of Affirmation Address to the University of Capetown, South Africa fifty-four years ago, "sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance."

Victor G.1 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/13/2020

I joined the board of Ripple Effect Artists a couple of years ago, attracted by REA's mission of creating compelling works that deal with important social subjects. So far my expectations have been exceeded - in my time at REA we've so far produced a play dealing with climate change (with nightly talkbacks with climate activists after each show's performance), and a short film - also climate related - that is currently making the rounds in the festival circuit. That film also included an apprenticeship program for teenagers of color looking to learn the craft of filmmaking. Since the pandemic started, we've also produced three radio plays and a dance video.

Ripple Effect Artists is a prolific arts organization always mindful of making a positive impact of its community, and deeply committed to producing works that address social justice.

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

Hi,

I’ve recently joined the board of Ripple Effect Artists because I was inspired and impressed by the organization’s commitment to positive social impact, and its ability to transform that commitment into action. From thought-provoking plays to challenging spoken-word events to events that help local communities (such as a recent park clean-up effort), Ripple Effect Artists produces events and works of art of substance that are approachable and fun. This upcoming season we are working on a play, a poetry reading, and a short film, among other things. I look forward to working to positively impact our culture and society by working with Ripple Effect Artists.

abbe s.

abbe s. Advisor

Rating: 5

10/25/2019

As a former Board member and current Senior Advisor, I have watched Ripple Effect Artists grow as a theatrical non-profit organization over the last several years -- both, from the sidelines and from a first-hand seat. Celebrating their 10th season, I say from the heart that Ripple Effect Artists does tremendous creative and impactful work that adds a strong voice to the arts and social justice issues. I am proud to be a part of the Ripple Effect Family and their important work. As the Founder and Editor of Socially Sparked News, I deem them a #SociallySparked® organization. Passion-driven & Ultra-inspiring.

1

Anatola Araba P. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

The most passionate nonprofit I've worked with. They cover a lot of meaningful topics including race, climate change, human trafficking, and more. They have put on many brilliant theater productions throughout NYC. The people running it are committed to making a difference in the world. Ripple Effect Artists, Inc. is really inspiring to work with.

1

Writer Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

The company does important work with the highest level of professionalism; always proud to be a cast member of one of their productions.
-Scott Zimmerman, AEA

1

Mousemuse11 Board Member

Rating: 4

10/29/2018

Highly organized and dedicated group where each person involved is reliable, warm and efficient. Talent is abundant. Passion for the artistic choices follow the mission for Ripple Effects Artists. Themes not only entertain but illuminate what we, as a society, should be concerned about. The stories we see and hear on stage or in more intimate settings are the ways we relate to humanity and the ways we get to ask questions. What can we do to go from apathy to action. What is the takeaway when you leave a performance. This season we are putting a magnifying glass on Climate Change. Critical sharing.

1

mtm228 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

Ripple Effect Artists is great! They care about bringing awareness to social issues and starting important conversations.

1

Regina R.1 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

A wonderful non-profit whose mission and purpose of bringing people from apathy to action through timeless and important theater productions & fundraisers. A must on your bucket list to attend at least 1 show, reading and fundraiser.

1

Eva D.1 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

I have been editing videos for Ripple Effect Artists, Inc. since last year. This nonprofit company is truly striving to make a voice for inequality. They have put a lot of efforts into plays and many other activities. In my opinion, such company should be praised and get supported!

1

ATANYC Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/28/2018

REA has a fabulous mission. We have enjoyed watching them over the years and now we are excited to partner with them in 2018!

1

theatrenyc General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/28/2018

These ladies are doing great in the world with their theatre and their advocacy.

2

Bob J.2 Board Member

Rating: 5

09/04/2018

Theater with a message... and action. Find us online. We are a 501c3 and are having a fundraiser in Hastings, NY on Saturday September 29th. Visit www.rippleeffectartists .org for additional details.

1

AlvinP General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/24/2017

It's great to see their shows and talk-backs. They are educating people and causing change, for good!

2

MarmeeRegine Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/06/2017

"I love volunteering with this group because their art always shows people about advocacy."

1

janeC Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

06/25/2017

As a theater professional (actor, director, dancer, coach) for many years I have worked with many theatrical companies in various capacities. Having participated in several REA workshops and a staged/choreographed reading of "Ring Round he Moon" by Jean Anouilh, I can say from an insiders point of view that the company, all participants, performers, producers, and supporters are among the most positive group of people that I have worked with. There is not an apathetic or self-serving attitude among them, and it's been a joy participating and watching the company grow and spread their love and dedication to both their craft and the various human communities which they serve

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/23/2017

Amazing organization and incredibly dedicated team. They tap into significant issues and subject matters. Combining great talent and theatre, the plays always bring out compelling performances. Ripple Effect Artists is a movement. They make a great deal of difference, not only in the Arts, but in helping make our world a better place. I support their cause 100% !

kall_em

kall_em Volunteer

Rating: 5

04/13/2017

I am a student in Midtown Manhattan, studying Business Management, who stumbled upon this organization and the amazing work it is doing by creating #ApathyToAction at their annual Valentine's Gala. Since then I have worked closely with the founder, board, ensemble, and more to promote the organization's mission and vision. I am so humbled by the conversations that this organization has allowed me to be a part of and to start with others to make positive ripples. I am also highly involved with Ripple Effect's social media and encourage anyone with interest to follow us and reach out to get more involved in creating your very own #RippleEffect! FB: https://www.facebook.com/RippleEffectArtists/ | IG: rippleeffect523 | Twitter: REArtists

1

Writer Donor

Rating: 5

04/07/2017

"Ripple Effect" puts our support to good work exploring difficult but necessary conversations that require us to either broaden our worldview or realize we are stuck. Both good outcomes to theatre in my book. They bring a lot of energy to their productions and they are good at what they do. Their commitment is evident in their longevity.

stevelatimer Advisor

Rating: 5

04/06/2017

I am a lifelong human rights activist and a photographer. I joined the board of Ripple Effect when it was almost in its infancy. The concept of a theater company putting on socially relevant plays and partnering with organizations that deal in the same issues absolutely fascinates me. Although I left the board and I'm now a member of the advisory board I still relish photographing Ripple Effect and watching the impact it's productions have

Abbe Board Member

Rating: 5

03/27/2017

I became a Board of Director of this incredible organization only last November 2016 and have to say how thoroughly impressed I was and still am with the dynamic leadership of Ripple Effect Artists. Founded by an exciting, passionate, and intelligent young woman who is destined to be one of our country's future next generation of great leaders. In just 5 short years, her and her team have taken her vision to move audiences from empathy to action to reality at the top of the spectrum - reaching 501 (c) 3 status in NY and Actor's Equity, Off-Broadway credibility - two feats not so easy to accomplish. Our most recent production, the critically-acclaimed play SHE HAS A NAME by playwright Andrew Kooman is about sex trafficking and so far, our three previews with talk backs off-broadway benefitted three worthy sex trafficking organization. We are in the process of putting on a full-run of this play off-broadway this summer (dependent on the additional funds we raise). As a professional with over 25 years of experience in the business, entertainment and performing arts world - I highly recommend this organization.

coolbeans General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

03/27/2017

This org has a great heart and mission. They need your funding. I witnessed their period production of THE ADDING MACHINE - so relevant! James P. Clark spoke after about technology replacing jobs, about the shrinking middle class. It makes a person wonder where we are headed in he next century and how mankind never really changes... or can we?

Need help?