Happy #FrontRowFriday, Encore fans! We hope that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family yesterday. This Friday, we’d like to introduce you to another member of our Encore family: Kelley O’Dell. Let’s dive in!
Encore: Please introduce yourself (how you have been involved with Encore, etc.)
Kelley: My name is Kelley O’Dell and I started as Encore’s Development Officer earlier this month. My background is in nonprofit management, with some time in federal and local government. Most of my experience is in community-based nonprofits with emphasis on grant writing, individual giving, volunteer management, and community relations.
Encore: What does your new position entail?
Kelley: I will be working with our amazing staff and board to increase support for Encore from all sectors of the community. My responsibilities will include managing the development pipeline and functions, as well as working with individual, corporate, and foundation giving. There will be a focus on planning and stewardship this year. Encore has so many enthusiastic supporters already, so I’m looking forward to diving in, making a difference, and reaching even more donors. Development is exciting, especially at such a vital and vibrant community organization like Encore!
Encore: What are you most excited about?
Kelley: Returning to fundraising for a community-based organization—and one that I care about so much personally. I’ve always cared about and worked toward increased opportunities, education, and human services for all people in our society. All young people deserve the opportunity to participate in the arts—and all young people have something to contribute—so I am enthusiastic about shifting my focus to the arts in terms of increasing opportunities and educational experiences in our community. I am definitely looking forward to working with Encore’s fantastic board of directors and staff.
Encore: What’s been your favorite Encore moment/memory so far?
Kelley: It’s tough to choose…but I saw seven out of nine performances of The Music Man with my younger daughter in 2017. I noticed something new each time. The intergenerational aspect of the summer shows was moving and brought back memories for me.
Encore: What’s the most unique/coolest/choose-your-own-adjective theatre experience you’ve had in your life?
Kelley: In elementary school, I participated in community theatre. My first show was in second grade when I was the only child in a dinner theatre production of i’l Abner. Then let’s just say that I peaked early as an actress at ten years old with 20 performances in a red curly wig! That was a pretty wonderful early life experience, but attending shows and singing with my girls are my favorite ways to experience theatre now. Our current favorite songs are “What’s Gonna Happen” from Tootsie (complete with bleeps for my nine-year-old) and songs from the last show we saw together (Legally Blonde at Keegan this summer). They’ve both loved musical theatre since they were toddlers, and it’s very special for us.
Encore: Why do you think the arts are important to young people?
Kelley: Oh, where to begin? Participating in artistic endeavors builds confidence and creativity. The arts serve as an outlet and a safe space for people of all ages. It’s so important for all children and youth to have social, educational, and creative experiences with groups outside of school.
Encore programs are incredible examples of developing assets in young people, including empowerment, constructive use of time, social competencies, and on and on. Older and younger kids (and adults!) working together helps everyone grow and understand their own value and contributions and to appreciate those of others.
Encore: Which show from Encore’s 2019/2020 season are you most looking forward to? Why?
Kelley: I am excited to hear the gorgeous songs of Narnia and to see that timeless story come to life on stage. And I am looking forward to seeing the continued development and impact of Flip the Script this year and beyond!
If you have any questions about how you can support Encore this holiday season and beyond, please reach out to me.
Many thanks to Kelley – we’re so excited to have you onboard as a member of our dedicated staff! Dear reader, you may not be joining us full-time this season, but you do have a chance to join Encore’s team this Giving Tuesday: create a page and fundraise on Encore’s behalf. If you hit the individual giving goal of $250, you’ll win an exclusive Encore water bottle. We can’t wait to have you on our team!
Photos by Larry McClemons. Additional photos contributed by Kelley O’Dell.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.