Community Engagement
The Tower Theatre is committed to maintaining a community-centered culture and expanding on community inclusion through tactical outreach and intentional community engagement. Community Engagement is vital in implementing the Tower Theatre Foundation’s role, mission principal, and strategic priorities successfully to rightfully serve all Central Oregonians.
The Tower Theatre Foundation strives to providing cultural and educational programs that make essential contributions to the region’s lifestyle and strength of community. We focus on establishing relationships with under-represtented populations as well as expanding collabortations with partnerships with other nonprofits to promote community and the arts.
OUR DEIA STATEMENT
The Tower Theatre Foundation has a responsibility to:
FOSTER an environment that awakens, entertains, educates, challenges and represents all Central Oregonians.
ENCOURAGE persons of all backgrounds to explore their creative and artistic possibilities.
SERVE as a safe social and cultural meeting place where different perspectives are respectfully heard, and everyone has a sense of belonging.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
The Tower Theatre Foundation’s “Page to Screen” program offers 4 evening free film screenings that show films based on literary titles to benefit youth and their families. We partner with Title One Elementary schools to create an out of the school opportunity for their students and families to gather and enjoy a night at the movies. Every child who attends also receives free books! This series is made possible by a partnership with Deschutes Public Library and The Assistance League of Bend.
The Tower was also a proud partner for The City of Bend Welcoming Week hosting two events centered around the Spanish Speaking Community. We worked with Partners In Care, Council On Aging, Vamonos Outside, Environmental Center and Camp Chica.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The Tower is out in the community. You might see us around at local events and community gatherings, please come say hi! The Tower Theatre Foundation has been a part of multiple community events this past year and has been proud to sponsor several as well. Organizations and events that we have sponsored or partnered with include PrideFest, Father’s Group Juneteenth, Ponderosa Players, Ellipse Theatre, Little Town Productions, Bunk and Brew, Summerfest and Bend Parks and Recreation.
ACCESIBILITY WORK
Accessibility to the arts and our venue have always been a priority. This year we have expanded those efforts and became certified by KultureCity as a Sensory Inclusive space. Now patrons have access to sensory bags at all events at the Tower. These bags are free of charge and come with noise canceling headphones, fidget toys, and a weighted lap pad. In addition to the sensory bags the Tower staff and volunteers were trained to recognize and assist patrons with sensory needs.
Along with creating a more inclusive space for our patrons we have also partnered with Full Access High Desert and Disability Support Network of Central Oregon to bring the Sprout Film Festival to the community as a yearly event. The Sprout Film Festival focuses exclusively on films that celebrate the diverse lives and creativity of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
We love new ideas and connections! Please contact us if you are interested in Community Engagement work.