What’s something you’re really excited about right now?
This question was the icebreaker at an event I recently attended, and I was surprised to realize that more than anything else right now, I’m really excited about my job.
To be more specific, this October, Conservation Foundation will celebrate its 20th Anniversary, and I am VERY excited for all that’s in store. As Director of Marketing and Events, I get to play an integral part in planning and executing our celebration activities – big anniversary fundraising and land protection goals; organizational impact retrospectives and visions for the future; exciting new events, programs, and community partnerships; special edition print pieces; fun anniversary swag; digital toolkits for peer-to-peer campaigns… the list goes on, and I love it all.
I find it deeply satisfying to see a plan come to life and to see how all the different moving parts fit together. When the people involved are excited by what they’re doing and truly invested, that’s even better. And let me tell you, the team here at Conservation Foundation is invested and EXCITED!
I can’t share all that’s in store just yet, but I can give you a glimpse into the year ahead.
Of everything we have planned, it’s safe to say I am most excited about our new February fundraiser, Party in Paradise. This cocktail-party celebration is unlike anything we’ve ever done before. It will take place at our Bay Preserve headquarters in Osprey, and the entire property will be included in the event space. There will be a waterfront lounge (the Golden Hour Lounge), a tropical disco (the Island Dream Disco), and central VIP seating with reserved tables for sponsors. Guests will enjoy open bars, signature cocktails, and endless culinary delights, including passed hors d’oeuvres, rotating food stations, and even a dedicated dessert hour! We’re going for a tropical glam meets modern disco vibe with plenty of unexpected moments of delight. I cannot wait to see how it all comes together! And I encourage you to attend because, truthfully, I really think it’s going to be incredible (and, of course, the funds raised will support our mission to save more land!).
So, save the date! Party in Paradise is Saturday, February 3, 2024. Sponsorship opportunities are available now, and tickets will be available very soon.
Another aspect of our 20th Anniversary celebration that I am excited about is our new community partners for performances at Bay Preserve. We look forward to bringing back past partners, including Asolo and the Hermitage, and can’t wait to welcome other new local theatre and musical organizations like Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and Venice Symphony. More details and dates will be announced in the very near future.
We have a lot in store this year, and there will be plenty of ways for you to get involved. After all, these last twenty years would not have been possible without the support of you, our conservation community. We cannot wait to celebrate our 20th Anniversary with you and look forward to many, many more years ahead. Stay tuned for big things coming soon!
