Tag: donation

Lighthouse Festival receives generous donation from Reise Family Foundation

PORT DOVER , ON- The Reise Family Foundation has stepped forward with a gift of $5,000 in support of the Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover. Lighthouse’s mission to commission, develop, produce, and present high-calibre professional theatre with a focus on Canadian comedies, stories and artists resonates with the Reise Family Foundation which values fostering the growth of individuals and supporting organizations that spread care and compassion in their communities.

Established by the late Leo and Geraldine Reise as well as their three sons, Leo G, Charles and Norman, the foundation funds individuals and projects in sports, education, health, and the arts. Leo and Geraldine knew the value of education was paramount, health research studies need to be championed, and sports and the arts are integral to fostering personal growth. The Foundation is now managed by the three sons and their grandchildren who are proud to continue the legacy of giving, each bringing causes close to their hearts to the table for consideration.

The Reise family are long-time summer residents in Port Dover’s Buck’s Park and have been supporting Lighthouse Festival from its start in 1980 through donations and season subscriptions. The foundation is proud to make this gift in memory of Leo and Geraldine and recognize the important contribution to the arts, culture and growth opportunities that Lighthouse Festival brings to Port Dover, especially the youth programming offered through the Young Company.

As Lighthouse plans for its 43rd season, they are thrilled and grateful to receive this support from the Reise Family Foundation. As an arts leader in the community, Lighthouse strives to provide an inclusive space for everyone who is interested in being a part of live theatre. The Young Company program offers youth aged 11-17 a three-week camp experience working with professional theatre staff and crew culminating in an eight-performance run on the stage in Port Dover.

About:

The Reise Family Foundation is a private charitable foundation established in 2017 to formalize their families’ philanthropic efforts and continue the Reise legacy of living and caring for perpetuity. More information can be found on the foundation website at www.reisefamilyfoundation.com

Lighthouse Festival donates $30,000 worth of tickets to community organizations.

Lighthouse Festival has wrapped up a donation campaign that saw $30,000 worth of complimentary tickets given to fellow non-profit and charitable organizations throughout the Norfolk County and Port Colborne area. 

“It’s been talked about to no end, but the fact remains that the pandemic was rough for so many in our community,” shares Lighthouse Artistic Director, Derek Ritschel. “Businesses, families, individuals, everybody. Lighthouse is fortunate that we have such a passionate and dedicated base of supporters that helped us navigate the past couple of years. And now that we’re looking at our first full season at the theatre in over 30 months, we wanted to support the communities that show us so much support. We’re so proud to operate in Norfolk County and Port Colborne.” 

Lighthouse is doing what they do best, providing a “leave your worries at the door” night out on the town with some first rate, professional comedy theatre. But this year those who might not have been able to attend can take in a show compliments of Lighthouse. “We wanted to get these tickets to those that would have not been able to go otherwise,” shares Ritschel. “What we do at Lighthouse Festival really is for everybody, and laughter is good for the soul. We hope they can enjoy a show this summer on us, and experience the joy of theatre.”

Organizations that received complimentary tickets this summer include:

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Grand Erie
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County 
  • Community Living Access
  • Simcoe Caring Cupboard 
  • Port Cares
  • Port Dover Food Bank
  • Waterford Food Cupboard 
  • Youth Unlimited Norfolk