

2021 Year End Appeal at Oddfellows
Oddfellows Playhouse classes are finally back indoors!

Hello Friends and Neighbors!
As we approach the end of 2021, we humbly return to your inboxes with this appeal for donations in support of Oddfellows Playhouse’s nearly 50 year old mission of providing high-quality performing arts experiences to young people from all parts of our community while being a safe and inclusive space for all kids.
We see children growing up before our eyes, coming into their own, overcoming challenges and embracing their uniqueness under the embrace of Oddfellows’ roof. Right now, they need us more than ever. After 20 months of this pandemic, we are ecstatic to have our community of kids back in the building, and the sense of relief and gratitude among the young people is palpable. From Children’s Circus to Teen Repertory Company, we cannot count the number of kids and parents who, over the past six months, have expressed what a lifeline Oddfellows has been during the pandemic. From a Teen Rep parent sharing “This is the only thing that is keeping them going right now” to these comments from Children’s Circus parents this summer:
“He finally felt like he could be himself, to fit in, and was allowed to be silly and have fun.”
“The opportunity to be completely free to be exactly who they are in a safe, supportive environment.”
“The increase in self-confidence and the willingness to try new things that we are seeing.”
“It was hugely beneficial to our child’s social and physical health and development.”
“Giving them room to grow and be their own magical self, encouraged to do their best in what makes them happy.”
Our afterschool program Oddbridge is back in full swing, and we are expanding it from 24 to 32 weeks this school year to better serve families who need the after-school care. We have also added four new troupes in two Middletown public housing neighborhoods.
These biannual appeals allow us to continue to trust that each year we will be able to open our doors, and that another generation of Oddfellows kids will benefit from the unique learning and growing environment that we provide.
In the season of giving, we hope you will consider investing in the wellbeing of Oddfellows’ kids with a donation today!
Please consider a recurring monthly donation. This helps us sustain our mission.
One off donations are MORE THAN welcome as well!
$100 contribution purchases snacks for one week of after school classes
$250 contribution covers a full tuition scholarship with Oddbridge aftercare
$500 funds the purchase of air purifiers for two classrooms
$1,000 contribution employs a designer for one of our five mainstage productions
$5,000 sustains our core staff who keep the wheels turning
We invite you to join at a level that suits your ability to give!
Gratefully,
Dic, Liz, Cookie, Dan & Sage