In Boulder County, we rank 44th in giving among 64 Colorado counties. Artist Jeannie DeMarinis is doing her part to improve our low ranking.
In Boulder County, we rank 44th in giving among 64 Colorado counties. Artist Jeannie DeMarinis is doing her part to improve our low ranking.
“We live up near Jamestown, and I remember how incredibly helpful the Community Foundation’s response was during the flood of 2013,” says DeMarinis, whose husband – Rich Lopez – formerly served on the foundation’s Board of Trustees. “So when my husband suggested donating one of my paintings [‘Roasting Chilis,’ below] to a BRAVO Fund auction last winter, I thought it was a great idea.”
From there, DeMarinis and fellow oil painter Valerie Meyers committed to donating 15% (about $300) of the profits from their recent “Close to Home” show to the BRAVO Fund.
“Valerie and I had been working on putting together this show for a couple years,” explains DeMarinis. “It felt great to earmark a donation to support BRAVO. This is our community, and everything that benefits one of us benefits everybody.”
Specifically, the BRAVO Fund aims to improve the quality of life for Boulder County Latinos by engaging them in philanthropy that builds resiliency and strengthens inclusivity. The theme of artists’ show at Lucky’s Café in June – “Close to Home: Alleys, Backyards & Byways” – was somewhat similarly conceived to reveal local surroundings and scenery, bringing to light what’s familiar but frequently unnoticed.
Previously, DeMarinis worked in education and taught bilingual migrant summer school. “In both settings, it was great fun to get the kids outdoors,” she said. So much so, that DeMarinis conducted a bilingual program for kids at the Thorne Nature Experience, a foundation grantee. “I taught five summers, going into schools to recruit kids, persuading parents that their kids would be safe, and providing transportation for those who had none.” “I’m just blown away by all that the Community Foundation does,” she adds. “I would encourage everyone to do everything you can to contribute to the work of the foundation – even donating a small amount makes a difference. It all adds up for our community.”
