My Nonprofit Reviews
twinmomrj
Review for Theatreworks USA Corp., New York, NY, USA
I was fortunate to be cast in Theatreworks' production of "Susan B!" about the life of Susan B. Anthony, back in early 1980's. I was a young actress in my early twenties, and this was my first job with a weekly paycheck. Jay Harnick and Charles Hull were extremely supportive of their employees, as we ventured out across the country and even to Alaska with our show. It was an experience I will never forget, because so many children in so many places, made it clear by their response, that they were having a great time being "edutained" by our traveling troupe. I am thrilled that Theatreworks is still going strong. It was formative to my career, and an inspiration to many who would not otherwise have a theatre experience.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
my development as an actor/singer, particularly in a touring situation
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
reaching into places not generally served; e.g., tribal reservations in South Dakota, and remote parts of Alaska.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
1997
Review for Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, El Cerrito, CA, USA
Although I had no idea how "Playland at the Beach" could translate to an indoor venue, just the name, "Playland-NOT-at-the-Beach, Museum of FUN" [Emphasis supplied], said it all. I was an East Coast person familiar with some amusement parks, but never the iconic Playland at the Beach. Through short films, authentic carnival games, and pinball machines spanning decades, as well as delightful miniature worlds presented with great attention to detail, I was taken back to a time I had only heard stories about. Any one of the gentlemen at Playland NATB can give you personal narratives of this bygone era, and will gladly offer as much information as you want to hear. Sharing the stories and the artifacts is what it's all about. When my son asked if he could volunteer, he was welcomed enthusiastically, and seems to learn something new about the business every time he volunteers. Giving young people this chance is fostering a real sense of responsibility, and frankly, I'm delighted that he takes pride in this endeavor which is a real change from the technological nature of our lives in this day and age.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
regular departures from my role as a grown-up! What joy there is in playing games alongside children and other adults without the modern "arcade" atmosphere.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
add a snack bar.
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Watching my son take on the role of game operator and all-around helper, as a weekly volunteer.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
happy to see me, happy to help, happy to share their stories.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
reach a wider audience, fill a larger space, ensure that generations to come will know what entertainment was "back in the day." I'm confident this enterprise would reach out to the underprivileged to provide entertainment and education where is need.
Ways to make it better...
there were more room in the games area, more room in the audience area for the magic shows. They manage to keep a flow, nonetheless, with very efficient use of space.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
space and profile.
One thing I'd also say is that...
This is a unique, quaint, and joyful experience, due largely to the sincerity and heart of those who created Playland-Not-At-The-Beach. Thank you.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
