Madison Arts Barn Honors Volunteers
The Barn names the '22 Tammy Boris Volunteer of the Year recipient and acknowledges the hard work of many of the '22 standout volunteers
Pictured from left to right are Natasha Lehman, Betty Freeborn, Amanda Waggoner, Joe Walker, Alyssa Bartone, and Joan Walker
The Madison Arts Barn recently celebrated 2022 by highlighting some of their many wonderful volunteers. All of the barn’s volunteers are instrumental in helping them fulfill their mission of empowering young people to pursue their interests and passions: encouraging a sense of community through creativity, music, and the arts in a safe and supportive environment.
Among the volunteers recognized were,Natasha Lehman, Betty Freeborn, Amanda Waggoner, Alyssa Bartone, and Joan Walker. All of whom helped the barns efforts tremendously in 2022.
The barn was thrilled to present the 2022 Tammy Boris Volunteer of the Year Award to Joe Walker. Joe has been a tremendous asset to the Friends of Madison Youth for many years. Some of his most notable contributions include serving as President of the Board of Directors for many years, and advancing the technology of the barn by serving as our technical director overseeing lighting and sound for all of our productions. Thank you Joe for all you have done and continue to do!
If you would like to be a part of making the barn the best place it can be, head to www.madisonartsbarn.org and scroll to their “get involved” section! Or you can reach out to [email protected]
The Barn Community Contributor
Posted Thu, Feb 16, 2023 at 1:09 pm ET
Five Madison Organizations Awarded State Grants
The grant program helps preserve arts and culture in Connecticut.
MADISON, CT — Five Madison organizations were awarded grants by the CT Cultural Fund.
The awardees include:
Rich Scinto, Patch Staff
Posted Fri, Feb 3, 2023 at 9:36 am ET
The grant program helps preserve arts and culture in Connecticut.
MADISON, CT — Five Madison organizations were awarded grants by the CT Cultural Fund.
The awardees include:
- Deacon John Grave Foundation $5,800
- Madison Historical Society $8,900
- Madison Lyric Stage $7,900
- New Haven Chorale $9,500
- The Barn $8,200
Rich Scinto, Patch Staff
Posted Fri, Feb 3, 2023 at 9:36 am ET
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MADISON — Elves and fairy princesses, flitting about an enchanted forest, will welcome young guests to a night to remember. Ties & Tiaras Enchanted Ball will be held Saturday April 2 and Sunday April 3, in two sessions each day, from 4 - 5:30 p.m. and 7 - 8:30 p.m., at the Madison Arts Barn, 8 Campus Drive. Tickets are $45 for one adult and one child, $20 for each additional child. For more information call 203-245-2689 or visit madisonartsbarn.org.
The event was formerly known as the Daddy Daughter Dance. “It’s just an incredibly magical experience,” said Amy Johnson, Arts Barn programming coordinator. |
“The magic really happens because they walk in, the whole barn is transformed into a beautiful event,” she said. “We decorate the huge room, in the backroom there are treats, candy, cookies and snack foods.”
The theme this year is Enchanted Forest and Fairy Wonderland, but no details on the actual decorations are known before the children walk into the Arts Barn. “We don’t really give out too much on what it will look like so it can be a surprise for all who enter.” said Johnson. “The transformation of the building is part of the magic.” Older students at the Arts Barn will be dressed up as characters for the evening and entertain the young attendees.
Maryclaire Pantano will be in attendance dressed as a fairy princess, mingling in the crowd, ready to dance and have her photo taken when requested by the young guests. This Daniel Hand High School sophomore attended these dances as a youngster and this is her second-year volunteering. She is looking forward to entertaining guests. “I really love the Arts Barn and I’ve been involved in a lot of their programs and I really like the community of it, so I decided to volunteer to be with the community,” said the 15-year-old. “I really like to see how excited the kids are and how much fun it is for them to hang out with whoever they go with,” she added. The event will be filled with music and entertainment, game tables, a small gift for the young guests and a raffle. All youth must be accompanied by an adult. Face masks and either proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test within 72 hours of the event are required for entrance.
“This annual event is wildly successful, said Johnson. “We have had sold out events for the last few years,” she said. “Each year it would increase in popularity.”
For more information call 203-245-2689 or visit madisonartsbarn.org.
Written by Sarah Page Kyrcz
The theme this year is Enchanted Forest and Fairy Wonderland, but no details on the actual decorations are known before the children walk into the Arts Barn. “We don’t really give out too much on what it will look like so it can be a surprise for all who enter.” said Johnson. “The transformation of the building is part of the magic.” Older students at the Arts Barn will be dressed up as characters for the evening and entertain the young attendees.
Maryclaire Pantano will be in attendance dressed as a fairy princess, mingling in the crowd, ready to dance and have her photo taken when requested by the young guests. This Daniel Hand High School sophomore attended these dances as a youngster and this is her second-year volunteering. She is looking forward to entertaining guests. “I really love the Arts Barn and I’ve been involved in a lot of their programs and I really like the community of it, so I decided to volunteer to be with the community,” said the 15-year-old. “I really like to see how excited the kids are and how much fun it is for them to hang out with whoever they go with,” she added. The event will be filled with music and entertainment, game tables, a small gift for the young guests and a raffle. All youth must be accompanied by an adult. Face masks and either proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test within 72 hours of the event are required for entrance.
“This annual event is wildly successful, said Johnson. “We have had sold out events for the last few years,” she said. “Each year it would increase in popularity.”
For more information call 203-245-2689 or visit madisonartsbarn.org.
Written by Sarah Page Kyrcz
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Madison Arts Barn Announces Establishment of the Tammy Boris Volunteer of the Year Award
By Ben Rayner The Madison Arts Barn, aka The Barn, is introducing its Volunteer of the Year Award, named after Tammy Boris, who is part of a long legacy of community service. According to board members, this award will be given annually to one of the many volunteers who help empower young people to pursue their passions by encouraging a sense of community through creativity, music, and the arts in a safe and supportive environment. |
According to board member Cristal DePietro, it is no surprise that the first recipient is Tammy Boris, who is the award’s namesake. Boris first got involved with Madison Arts Barn more than 15 years ago through her father, Bill Barker, one of the founding members, and she and her family continue to volunteer and provide support for the organization.
DePietro said Madison Arts Barn was part skate park and part event space, with bands playing weekly when it began. Starting out as a volunteer, Boris developed a deep connection with The Barn and its youth, and using her determination and drive, she was able “to build what was a great blueprint into an incredible non-profit organization,” DePietro said.
Boris’ commitment and passion led the board to hire her as the organization’s executive director, according to DePietro.
Under years of Boris’s leadership, The Barn “has grown to be a comprehensive youth-oriented setting that provides a safe and substance-free space where kids can feel the freedom of being themselves without judgment,” according to DePietro. According to the board, there were numerous reasons why they chose to create the award and to honor Boris, stating that many of the town’s most “beloved events,” like the Daddy Daughter Dance, the Chili Cook-Off, and the Haunted House, have been created or inspired by Boris.
However, one act by Boris stands out for The Barn community—one that helped save the organization during its most difficult period.
“COVID had many ramifications throughout the community with a prolonged recovery ahead, but The Barn’s future was secured by the selflessness of Tammy herself. With a gesture so simple, she changed so much by stepping down as co-director in order to ease the financial burden that was felt due to the loss of income and donations due to COVID,” DePietro said. “With the needs of the community increasing and the emotional wellbeing of local youth so critical, it was more important than ever for there to be a place like The Barn.”
DePietro said Boris’s passion is infectious in the best sense of the word and that her presence and dedication continue to inspire both staff and students. Boris also has the title of director emeritus with the organization as well.
“It has been clear to The Barn and its board of directors that when looking for a volunteer of the year for recognition, the bar could not be raised any higher,” DePietro said. “The Barn is so grateful for her service to the community and its youth.”
According to its website, in 1997, a group of youth-conscious citizens formed Friends of Madison Youth, Inc., now doing business as The Barn. The Barn’s support and funding came from a wide range of organizations in addition to individuals. In 1999, the Town of Madison agreed to allow the organization to use The Madison Arts Barn, and with the generosity of The Wilbur W. Pardee Fund, the Greer Fund for Youth, The Erwin C. Bauer Trust, The Madison Foundation, and many individuals, they raised over $300,000.
On May 5, 2000, The Barn opened its doors to the community and has been open ever since. As of 2020, more than 80,000 have participated in our programs and events.
For her part, Boris said she is truly humbled by the honor and, like a true volunteer, credits others for their work and dedication above hers.
“I’d just like to say thanks to [Executive Director] Robyn Klaskin and the entire board for establishing this yearly award and naming it after me. It’s truly a tremendous honor. I am surprised and humbled because when you volunteer, you do it for love, not for recognition. I love the kids, I love the adults, and I love everything The Barn stands for,” Boris said.
Boris said she never loses enthusiasm for The Barn and is proud of her family’s legacy to the organization and The Barn’s commitment to shoreline youth.
“It’s wonderful. This place and these people are my families. Though I’m not as heavily involved as I once was...I am still participating in plays, and doing costuming and artistic involvement because these people are my best friends,” said Boris. “Working with my father, working with the kids, has been very rewarding. To see these kids enjoy it and what they get out of it is truly humbling and special. The satisfaction comes from feeling you are doing right by these kids.”
For more information, visit The Barn’s website, www.madisonartsbarn.org.
DePietro said Madison Arts Barn was part skate park and part event space, with bands playing weekly when it began. Starting out as a volunteer, Boris developed a deep connection with The Barn and its youth, and using her determination and drive, she was able “to build what was a great blueprint into an incredible non-profit organization,” DePietro said.
Boris’ commitment and passion led the board to hire her as the organization’s executive director, according to DePietro.
Under years of Boris’s leadership, The Barn “has grown to be a comprehensive youth-oriented setting that provides a safe and substance-free space where kids can feel the freedom of being themselves without judgment,” according to DePietro. According to the board, there were numerous reasons why they chose to create the award and to honor Boris, stating that many of the town’s most “beloved events,” like the Daddy Daughter Dance, the Chili Cook-Off, and the Haunted House, have been created or inspired by Boris.
However, one act by Boris stands out for The Barn community—one that helped save the organization during its most difficult period.
“COVID had many ramifications throughout the community with a prolonged recovery ahead, but The Barn’s future was secured by the selflessness of Tammy herself. With a gesture so simple, she changed so much by stepping down as co-director in order to ease the financial burden that was felt due to the loss of income and donations due to COVID,” DePietro said. “With the needs of the community increasing and the emotional wellbeing of local youth so critical, it was more important than ever for there to be a place like The Barn.”
DePietro said Boris’s passion is infectious in the best sense of the word and that her presence and dedication continue to inspire both staff and students. Boris also has the title of director emeritus with the organization as well.
“It has been clear to The Barn and its board of directors that when looking for a volunteer of the year for recognition, the bar could not be raised any higher,” DePietro said. “The Barn is so grateful for her service to the community and its youth.”
According to its website, in 1997, a group of youth-conscious citizens formed Friends of Madison Youth, Inc., now doing business as The Barn. The Barn’s support and funding came from a wide range of organizations in addition to individuals. In 1999, the Town of Madison agreed to allow the organization to use The Madison Arts Barn, and with the generosity of The Wilbur W. Pardee Fund, the Greer Fund for Youth, The Erwin C. Bauer Trust, The Madison Foundation, and many individuals, they raised over $300,000.
On May 5, 2000, The Barn opened its doors to the community and has been open ever since. As of 2020, more than 80,000 have participated in our programs and events.
For her part, Boris said she is truly humbled by the honor and, like a true volunteer, credits others for their work and dedication above hers.
“I’d just like to say thanks to [Executive Director] Robyn Klaskin and the entire board for establishing this yearly award and naming it after me. It’s truly a tremendous honor. I am surprised and humbled because when you volunteer, you do it for love, not for recognition. I love the kids, I love the adults, and I love everything The Barn stands for,” Boris said.
Boris said she never loses enthusiasm for The Barn and is proud of her family’s legacy to the organization and The Barn’s commitment to shoreline youth.
“It’s wonderful. This place and these people are my families. Though I’m not as heavily involved as I once was...I am still participating in plays, and doing costuming and artistic involvement because these people are my best friends,” said Boris. “Working with my father, working with the kids, has been very rewarding. To see these kids enjoy it and what they get out of it is truly humbling and special. The satisfaction comes from feeling you are doing right by these kids.”
For more information, visit The Barn’s website, www.madisonartsbarn.org.
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$54K In Arts, Humanities Grants Go To 6 Madison Organizations. In sharing the news about the grants, state Sen. Christine Cohen said the funds help arts groups survive during the lingering pandemic. Ellyn Santiago, Patch Staff.
Posted Wed, Jan 12, 2022, at 2:20 pm ET. The Madison Arts Barn will receive $11,600 from CT Humanities. (Ellyn Santiago/Patch)MADISON, CT — Madison's arts community will soon be enriched with the announcement Wednesday by state Sen. Christine Cohen about a quarter million in state arts grants. |
The funds were awarded to nearly two dozen shoreline arts and humanities organizations to "help them financially survive during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," Cohen said.
The local grants are part of 624 statewide grants to different non-profit museums and cultural, humanities, and arts organizations totaling $16 million, and they are part of the $30.7 million in grants allocated by the state legislature to CT Humanities over the next two years.
Grants range from $5,000 to $500,000 to any organization offering cultural, humanities, and arts-based projects and activities for the public.
Madison arts groups are set to receive a total of $54,000 in grants.
Let's go!
The grants are part of the 2021-23 biennial state budget from CT Humanities through its CT Cultural Fund. The grants will assist organizations recovering from the pandemic and aid them in serving their communities.
"Thousands of people in shoreline towns enjoy these organizations year-round, but the pandemic has had a tremendous impact on our arts, culture, and tourism sector. I fought for relief and assistance for them because, like so many of our cherished businesses, they have been at financial risk," Cohen said. "These funds will help to keep their doors open and allow the continuation of their wonderful services to the community."
The local grants are part of 624 statewide grants to different non-profit museums and cultural, humanities, and arts organizations totaling $16 million, and they are part of the $30.7 million in grants allocated by the state legislature to CT Humanities over the next two years.
Grants range from $5,000 to $500,000 to any organization offering cultural, humanities, and arts-based projects and activities for the public.
Madison arts groups are set to receive a total of $54,000 in grants.
Let's go!
- Deacon John Grave Foundation, $6,800
- FUSE Theatre of CT, $5,400
- Madison Historical Society, $12,100
- Madison Lyric Stage, $10,400
- The Madison Arts Barn, $11,600
- Ubuntu Storytellers (via Arts Council of Greater New Haven) $8,100
The grants are part of the 2021-23 biennial state budget from CT Humanities through its CT Cultural Fund. The grants will assist organizations recovering from the pandemic and aid them in serving their communities.
"Thousands of people in shoreline towns enjoy these organizations year-round, but the pandemic has had a tremendous impact on our arts, culture, and tourism sector. I fought for relief and assistance for them because, like so many of our cherished businesses, they have been at financial risk," Cohen said. "These funds will help to keep their doors open and allow the continuation of their wonderful services to the community."
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Arts Barn And NAMI Present Play That Honors Mental Health Week. A childhood home visit and a beloved brother's descent into mental illness is the subject of a play written and performed by Julie Fitzpatrick. Ellyn Santiago, Patch Staff.
Posted Mon, Sep 27, 2021, at 6:37 pm ET. Reply. |
In honor of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Oct. 3 through Oct. 9, the Madison Arts Barn and NAMI present "77 U-Turn," a solo show about a visit to a childhood home and a beloved brother's fall into the grasp of mental illness at the Arts Barn on Oct. 8. (Madison Arts Barn)MADISON, CT —In honor of Mental Illness Awareness Week, which runs Oct. 3 through Oct. 9, the Madison Arts Barn and the National Alliance on Mental Illness present "77 U-Turn," a solo show about revisiting one's childhood home and a beloved brother's fall into the grasp of mental illness.
Described as "poetic, touching, and honest," the play is about "coming home, parenting, love, loss, confusion, and what happens when we turn around and look back before moving forward."
Written and performed by Julie Fitzpatrick and directed by Keely Baisden-Knudsen, Artistic Director of The Legacy Theatre in Branford, the play will be presented live at The Madison Arts Barn, 8 Campus Dr., on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m.
Due to the subject matter, the performance is recommended for audience members 12 and older. It's also noted that the play includes references to self-harm, which may disturb or trigger some audience members.
There will be a panel discussion following the performance.
Described as "poetic, touching, and honest," the play is about "coming home, parenting, love, loss, confusion, and what happens when we turn around and look back before moving forward."
Written and performed by Julie Fitzpatrick and directed by Keely Baisden-Knudsen, Artistic Director of The Legacy Theatre in Branford, the play will be presented live at The Madison Arts Barn, 8 Campus Dr., on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m.
Due to the subject matter, the performance is recommended for audience members 12 and older. It's also noted that the play includes references to self-harm, which may disturb or trigger some audience members.
There will be a panel discussion following the performance.
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KIDS' MADISON ARTS BARN COMEDY SERIES TO BE TAUGHT BY TOWN NATIVEMADISON(July 17, 2021) — Children who possess a natural talent for humor and seem to possess a natural penchant for comedy may be a perfect fit for The Madison Arts Barn’s stand-up workshop next month. “Stand Up & Learn,” for kids in fifth grade and higher, will be held over three evenings: Aug. 4 and 5 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and Aug. 6 from 4 to 6 p.m. A performance will take place on the final day at 6:30 p.m.
Stand-up comedian and actor Kevin Flynn, a Madison native, will lead the workshop and teach participants to develop and create a routine using the art of comedic storytelling. |
In 2007, Flynn was “devastated” to learn that teen suicides had shaken the Nantucket island community, according to a press release. “He knew there was healing power in laughter, so he set his heart on applying it to the community and envisioned creating classes for kids using stand-up comedy techniques to teach confidence and self-esteem.”
Stand Up & Learn is an innovative educational program for schools to encourage confidence through comedic self-expression.
Flynn is also cofounder and executive director of the Nantucket Comedy Festival. He has an extensive list of stand-up performances but has also worked as an actor for: “Me, Myself, & Irene,” “The Heartbreak Kid,” “Osmosis Jones,” and “Sex in the City,” the news release said. He also hosted “Go For It” on Discovery Channel and has also done sportscasting for various channels.
Workshop goals include introducing children to creative writing, communication, and critical thinking skills while laughing and having fun, according to the art barn.
The fee is $175, and scholarships are available to anyone adversely affected by COVID-19, and there is no application process. To sign up, contact the venue at [email protected].
For information, visit madisonartsbarn.org. [email protected]
Stand Up & Learn is an innovative educational program for schools to encourage confidence through comedic self-expression.
Flynn is also cofounder and executive director of the Nantucket Comedy Festival. He has an extensive list of stand-up performances but has also worked as an actor for: “Me, Myself, & Irene,” “The Heartbreak Kid,” “Osmosis Jones,” and “Sex in the City,” the news release said. He also hosted “Go For It” on Discovery Channel and has also done sportscasting for various channels.
Workshop goals include introducing children to creative writing, communication, and critical thinking skills while laughing and having fun, according to the art barn.
The fee is $175, and scholarships are available to anyone adversely affected by COVID-19, and there is no application process. To sign up, contact the venue at [email protected].
For information, visit madisonartsbarn.org. [email protected]
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MADISON FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS TO PROMOTE FITNESS, HEALTH, AND WELLNESSThe Madison Foundation is pleased to announce grant awards totaling $5,000 for three local organizations promoting health and wellness: Madison Little League, SARAH, Inc., and the Madison Arts Barn. In a time when children are feeling isolated, spending more time connected to devices, and less time engaging in physical exercise, these vital groups are offering activities that challenge the mind as well as the body.
Founded in 1967, Madison Little League (MLL) offers boys and girls aged 5 to 12 the year-round opportunity to learn and play baseball and softball in a fun, nurturing environment. The Madison Foundation provided funding for need-based waivers to families who were unable to pay the registration fee. This grant award allowed six children to participate in the program. Visit the MLL website at www.madisonctbaseball.com to sign a child up to play, volunteer, make a donation, or learn more about league operations and the community sponsors that help make youth athletics available to Madison children. |
SARAH, Inc., a Westbrook-based nonprofit serving people of all ages and differing abilities, is launching an adaptive virtual fitness class for its Madison Day program members. The foundation funded a weekly fitness program led by trainers experienced in working with individuals with disabilities. Set to begin in early April, and the recorded training sessions will give differently-abled people the tools to make healthy choices and live more independently. The fitness videos will be archived and used to benefit all members of the SARAH community.
The Madison Arts Barn has been encouraging young people to pursue their creative passions since 1997. In early 2021, the group launched New Year, New You, a program promoting health and wellness through a variety of fun activities. Nearly one hundred adult and student participants met weekly via Zoom to exercise, learn, and support one another during this unprecedented period of social isolation. A blog detailing the program’s weekly workshops can be found on its website at www.madisonartsbarn.org.
The Madison Foundation provides grant funding to local nonprofit organizations working to improve the lives of town residents. Grant applications can be found on the foundation’s website www.themadisonfoundation.org.
The Madison Arts Barn has been encouraging young people to pursue their creative passions since 1997. In early 2021, the group launched New Year, New You, a program promoting health and wellness through a variety of fun activities. Nearly one hundred adult and student participants met weekly via Zoom to exercise, learn, and support one another during this unprecedented period of social isolation. A blog detailing the program’s weekly workshops can be found on its website at www.madisonartsbarn.org.
The Madison Foundation provides grant funding to local nonprofit organizations working to improve the lives of town residents. Grant applications can be found on the foundation’s website www.themadisonfoundation.org.
Madison Arts Barn Offers Summer ProgramsThe Madison Arts Barn, 8 Campus Drive, Madison, has announced several upcoming programs open to students from any town.
The Film & Animation Week at The Barn Youth Center will run from Monday to Friday, June 28 to July 2. Daniel Hand High School art teacher Greg Gallo will introduce students to designing, producing, and editing short films and animations using methods such as drawing short step animations with flip-books, stop motion animation, and creating pioneering animation devices. The program is open to students entering 5th grade and up. |
Girl Power Week at The Barn Youth Center will run from Monday to Friday, July 6 to 9. The focus will be on activities and games that will help promote positivity and empowerment amongst the campers, all while making memories and having fun. Open to students entering 3rd through 8th grade.
Financial assistance and scholarships are available. For more information, email [email protected]. For more information or to register, visit Madisonartsbarn.org.
Click HERE to read original article
Financial assistance and scholarships are available. For more information, email [email protected]. For more information or to register, visit Madisonartsbarn.org.
Click HERE to read original article
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TIME FOR A SNOWBALL FIGHT AT MADISON ARTS BARN TO BRING WARM WISHES, RAISE FUNDSBY SARAH PAGE KYRCZ
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Orders can be placed by visiting madisonartsbarn.org. “For $5, I can put a smile on my nieces’ and nephews’ faces, and it’s totally worth it,” said Susan Wivell, who sent hot cocoa bombs. Each order has a personal message attached and is hand-delivered to Guilford, Madison, Killingworth, and Clinton. The project will continue through the winter with special items for Valentine's Day. “It’s fun, it’s cute,” said Robyn Klaskin, The Barn’s co-director. “People are very excited when I deliver them.” The hot cocoa bombs are $5 or $12.50 for three. They are made with a white chocolate melt shell and have cocoa mix and mini marshmallows inside. Once immersed in hot water or milk, the bomb opens and mixes into a yummy hot chocolate drink topped with marshmallows. The Cocoa Critters creatively packaged hot cocoa, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows to make a hot cocoa treat. These are $8 for a four-pack. The hot cocoa “snow globe,” which includes a mug and one cocoa refill, is currently sold out. They hope to offer this shortly. There is also a "pay it forward" option. The Barn is working with Youth and Family Services to deliver the treats to families in need.
“I think it’s a really great organization and a service and venue that’s all put together,” said Wivell. “I grew up in Madison, been a Madison resident for 30 years now, and I just really love to ‘Love Your Local,’ as they say,” she added. “Supporting local things during the pandemic has been really important, and I also thought it was a super adorable fundraiser.” The Barn is a small non-profit inclusive youth center that services youth and their communities with a focus on the arts. Their mission is to empower young people to pursue their interests and passions and to encourage a sense of community through creativity, music, and the arts in a safe and supportive environment. The Barn is financially stressed due to the closings, and reduced capacity limits that were necessary due to the pandemic explained Klaskin. “We’ve had a very difficult time since COVID hit, and so we’re trying to think of some creative ways to make money that will maybe put some cheer out into the community, as well,” she said. “It’s going to help us sustain during these difficult times.” Wivell, a teacher and mother, is excited to participate in this project at a time when the youth need a pick-me-up. “I know the kids are going through a lot right now, with in-school, out-of-school, hybrid, this that and everything, and so, I kind of felt like it’s a fun little time of the year, Christmas is over. I thought it would put a smile on their faces to be like, ‘Oh, my Gosh, Aunt Sue — Sue sent me a cocoa bomb!’ ”
The Barn, 8 Campus Drive, Madison, 203-245-2689; madisonartsbarn.org; Facebook The Barn.
“I think it’s a really great organization and a service and venue that’s all put together,” said Wivell. “I grew up in Madison, been a Madison resident for 30 years now, and I just really love to ‘Love Your Local,’ as they say,” she added. “Supporting local things during the pandemic has been really important, and I also thought it was a super adorable fundraiser.” The Barn is a small non-profit inclusive youth center that services youth and their communities with a focus on the arts. Their mission is to empower young people to pursue their interests and passions and to encourage a sense of community through creativity, music, and the arts in a safe and supportive environment. The Barn is financially stressed due to the closings, and reduced capacity limits that were necessary due to the pandemic explained Klaskin. “We’ve had a very difficult time since COVID hit, and so we’re trying to think of some creative ways to make money that will maybe put some cheer out into the community, as well,” she said. “It’s going to help us sustain during these difficult times.” Wivell, a teacher and mother, is excited to participate in this project at a time when the youth need a pick-me-up. “I know the kids are going through a lot right now, with in-school, out-of-school, hybrid, this that and everything, and so, I kind of felt like it’s a fun little time of the year, Christmas is over. I thought it would put a smile on their faces to be like, ‘Oh, my Gosh, Aunt Sue — Sue sent me a cocoa bomb!’ ”
The Barn, 8 Campus Drive, Madison, 203-245-2689; madisonartsbarn.org; Facebook The Barn.
MADISON ARTS BARN HOLDS HALLOWEEN CUPCAKE DECORATING EVENT
MADISON --
The Madison Arts Barn held a hybrid in-person and online Halloween-themed cupcake decorating event on Oct. 25. Here, Makayla Stella (age 13) pipes frosting onto a cupcake during the class.
For more information on upcoming Arts barn programs, visit TheMadisonArtsBarn on Facebook.
Original Article: The Source - www.zip06.com/news/20201028/madison-arts-barn-holds-halloween-cupcake-decorating-event.
The Madison Arts Barn held a hybrid in-person and online Halloween-themed cupcake decorating event on Oct. 25. Here, Makayla Stella (age 13) pipes frosting onto a cupcake during the class.
For more information on upcoming Arts barn programs, visit TheMadisonArtsBarn on Facebook.
Original Article: The Source - www.zip06.com/news/20201028/madison-arts-barn-holds-halloween-cupcake-decorating-event.
THE MADISON FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR THE ARTS BARN
The Madison Foundation to provide a $5000 grant to the Friends of Madison Youth to support families adversely affected by the COVID crisis.
By Jennifer Simpson, Neighbor
October 7th, 2020
October 7th, 2020
Remote Learning at The Barn's structured study hall. (Robyn Klaskin, Executive Director)
Madison, CT - The Madison Foundation, in conjunction with the John Brady and Roberta Isleib Donor-Advised Fund, will provide $5000 to the Friends of Madison Youth--The Barn--to support families adversely affected by the COVID-19 economic and public health crisis.
The hybrid learning model adopted by Madison Public Schools at the start of the school year left parents scrambling to find affordable child care. The Barn stepped in to fill the void by creating a safe and affordable learning solution. The grant funding will be used to create a structured study hall for students learning remotely with socially-distanced workstations, cozy reading areas, and WIFI internet access. Additionally, the funding will support adult proctors to assist students struggling with the virtual learning environment.
The grant will also provide funding for The Barn's theater program, which supports children's emotional and social development. Many students became depressed during the statewide shutdown, spending too many hours isolated, sedentary, and in front of screens. Participation in theater productions offers students a creative outlet where they can reconnect with peers in a socially responsible way.
"The Barn has provided quality programs to local families for more than twenty years and, for the first time, is faced with the reality that we cannot continue to open our programs to people who can't afford to pay at a time when families need our programs the most," said The Barn director Robin Klaskin.
Many parents need to go to work and are not comfortable leaving young learners at home to navigate online schooling. Even parents working from the home struggle with supporting their children and focusing on their work. The Barn's structured study hall provides a safe, affordable childcare option for parents at a critical time.
"This grant request had the unanimous support of the Board of Directors," said Peter Roos of the Foundation's grant committee. "The Barn was always self-sufficient, but like so many local nonprofits, they had to cancel all their major fundraising events. This program provides a safe place for children to study while being inspired to learn and grow," added Roos.
The Foundation is pleased to support The Barn's study hall program and is actively seeking grants from other nonprofits adversely affected by the ongoing global pandemic. Please visit the foundation's website at https://www.themadisonfoundation.org/grant-guidelines/ for additional grant information and to download the grant application.
The Madison Foundation is a grant-making organization committed to making Madison a better place for all residents by connecting donors who care with causes that matter.
The hybrid learning model adopted by Madison Public Schools at the start of the school year left parents scrambling to find affordable child care. The Barn stepped in to fill the void by creating a safe and affordable learning solution. The grant funding will be used to create a structured study hall for students learning remotely with socially-distanced workstations, cozy reading areas, and WIFI internet access. Additionally, the funding will support adult proctors to assist students struggling with the virtual learning environment.
The grant will also provide funding for The Barn's theater program, which supports children's emotional and social development. Many students became depressed during the statewide shutdown, spending too many hours isolated, sedentary, and in front of screens. Participation in theater productions offers students a creative outlet where they can reconnect with peers in a socially responsible way.
"The Barn has provided quality programs to local families for more than twenty years and, for the first time, is faced with the reality that we cannot continue to open our programs to people who can't afford to pay at a time when families need our programs the most," said The Barn director Robin Klaskin.
Many parents need to go to work and are not comfortable leaving young learners at home to navigate online schooling. Even parents working from the home struggle with supporting their children and focusing on their work. The Barn's structured study hall provides a safe, affordable childcare option for parents at a critical time.
"This grant request had the unanimous support of the Board of Directors," said Peter Roos of the Foundation's grant committee. "The Barn was always self-sufficient, but like so many local nonprofits, they had to cancel all their major fundraising events. This program provides a safe place for children to study while being inspired to learn and grow," added Roos.
The Foundation is pleased to support The Barn's study hall program and is actively seeking grants from other nonprofits adversely affected by the ongoing global pandemic. Please visit the foundation's website at https://www.themadisonfoundation.org/grant-guidelines/ for additional grant information and to download the grant application.
The Madison Foundation is a grant-making organization committed to making Madison a better place for all residents by connecting donors who care with causes that matter.
KIDS MAY FIND ADVENTURE AT THE BARN IN MADISON (CLICK HERE FOR ORIGINAL ARTICLE)
By Sarah Page Kyrcz July 7, 2020
Campers enjoy a day of relaxation during one of the summer camps offered through The Barn. The nonprofit organization in Madison has started summer camps for this summer, following strict COVID-19 protocols to keep all attendees safe.
MADISON — Are your children ready for an adventure after months of quarantine? How about summer camp with offerings including film animation, filmmaker’s boot camp, photography, art exploration, and Zen retreat week. For the last nine years, The Barn has offered summer camp at their 5,000-square-foot facility.
The nonprofit organization’s camp is directed toward ages 10 and up. This year, restrictions allow no more than 10 campers per session. “We’re doing everything here to be safe and following all the guidelines,” said Co-Director Robyn Klaskin, regarding precautions in light of the COVID-19 epidemic. That includes having three adults onsite “to monitor and make sure that everybody is safe,” Klaskin said. Camps have started and will conclude with the Aug. 10 “Find Your Zen: A Retreat Camp 2020.” Each session goes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., five days a week. In addition, two workshops are offered, meeting two hours for two days a week over a couple of weeks. These include Filmmaker’s Boot Camp and Monologue Master Class. While the doors were closed during state-required quarantining, children participated in weekly ZOOM events, including bingo, trivia, and DJ dance parties.
“It is nowhere near the same,” said Co-Director Tammy Boris. “They want to be together, so that’s why we’re looking forward to getting them back in here for summer camp.” After briefly shutting down and canceling the spring production of “Little Mermaid,” with 55 cast members, Klaskin is happy to be opening again for the children who participate in The Barn’s programs. “They consider The Barn part of their family, and they were so sad that we couldn’t be here together and doing things,” Klaskin said. “The kids, they create such bonds and friendships here — it was just sad to have all that taken away. So to be able to offer something, even to a limited amount of kids, is better than nothing.” With limited funding, the plays help bring in the money essential to keep the organization’s programs operational.
“To lose such a huge production like that, that was a devastating blow,” said Trisha Barba, a member of the board of directors for the past five years. Barba’s daughter, Carly, attended the camps for seven years and now serves as a mentor. “It was great,” said Barba. “She got to come here, interact with all the other kids. It’s a very loving environment, and all the kids look so forward to it when they come in. It’s exciting; they have fun. “Our main goal is to make sure that the kids enjoy their summer, they enjoy being up here, they make new friends, and that they do build their self-esteem.”
The nonprofit organization’s camp is directed toward ages 10 and up. This year, restrictions allow no more than 10 campers per session. “We’re doing everything here to be safe and following all the guidelines,” said Co-Director Robyn Klaskin, regarding precautions in light of the COVID-19 epidemic. That includes having three adults onsite “to monitor and make sure that everybody is safe,” Klaskin said. Camps have started and will conclude with the Aug. 10 “Find Your Zen: A Retreat Camp 2020.” Each session goes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., five days a week. In addition, two workshops are offered, meeting two hours for two days a week over a couple of weeks. These include Filmmaker’s Boot Camp and Monologue Master Class. While the doors were closed during state-required quarantining, children participated in weekly ZOOM events, including bingo, trivia, and DJ dance parties.
“It is nowhere near the same,” said Co-Director Tammy Boris. “They want to be together, so that’s why we’re looking forward to getting them back in here for summer camp.” After briefly shutting down and canceling the spring production of “Little Mermaid,” with 55 cast members, Klaskin is happy to be opening again for the children who participate in The Barn’s programs. “They consider The Barn part of their family, and they were so sad that we couldn’t be here together and doing things,” Klaskin said. “The kids, they create such bonds and friendships here — it was just sad to have all that taken away. So to be able to offer something, even to a limited amount of kids, is better than nothing.” With limited funding, the plays help bring in the money essential to keep the organization’s programs operational.
“To lose such a huge production like that, that was a devastating blow,” said Trisha Barba, a member of the board of directors for the past five years. Barba’s daughter, Carly, attended the camps for seven years and now serves as a mentor. “It was great,” said Barba. “She got to come here, interact with all the other kids. It’s a very loving environment, and all the kids look so forward to it when they come in. It’s exciting; they have fun. “Our main goal is to make sure that the kids enjoy their summer, they enjoy being up here, they make new friends, and that they do build their self-esteem.”