Chicago, IL

A nonprofit volunteer organization that provides additional staff for performing arts establishments in and around Chicago.

The Saints is a large nonprofit membership organization that provides volunteers for the performing arts in and around Chicago. The Saints currently has more than 1,800 members who volunteer to work with theater, dance and music venues, primarily as ushers.

Nuts and Bolts:

• The volunteer members of The Saints are able to choose the venues and performances where they want to volunteer, and in return get to watch the event.
• Many of the volunteers are older adults.  For older adults who love theater and the arts, The Saints is an excellent way to stay active in the community, see terrific performances, and help theaters and arts organizations fulfill their mission.

Successes:

• Since its beginning in 1980, The Saints has dramatically expanded its organization, serving more venues and assisting with mailings, fundraisings, office tasks and more.
• The Saints also distributes a monthly magazine to its members, holds General Meetings with speakers from the arts industry, and even provides scholarships to college students and grants to arts organizations.

For more information on this program: The Saints