Our Gratitude: Volunteer Appreciation Week

There is much anticipation for springtime, especially on the 12-acres of Lakeside Legacy Arts Park and grounds of the Historic Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake! Spring is a time for growth and reflection for the foundation, as well as time for preparation for the 35th Annual Lakeside Fest over the Fourth of July Weekend, concerts in 'the Listening Room', First Friday art shows, and Hip Hop Explosion programs.

The foundation's many successes are only made possible with the help from amazing community volunteers and donors! Siobhan Cottone, Lakeside's executive director, reflects, "Looking back on 2013, the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park has had many successes that we are proud to share with the community. Lakeside is proud of the identity it has created within McHenry County; we are a place where art can enrich lives by providing high-caliber art experiences that promote creativity, unity, and expression."

She adds, "We are also proud to say that we protect and preserve the Historic Dole Mansion as an infamous "Gem" within Crystal Lake and McHenry County."

Volunteers are an integral part to the foundation's mission and vision coming to life through events, concerts, and programs.

Lakeside could not have been successful this past year without the generosity and support shown from the community. Whether people attended events, volunteered, made donations, or businesses sponsored Lakeside's many initiatives, the community should be proud of their investment in Lakeside Legacy Arts Park and the Historic Dole Mansion. The foundation continues to be a fiscally sound and responsible organization. Lakeside is a serious steward of every dollar donated, ensuring contributions makes the largest impact in support of the mission and vision to protect and preserve the property for generations to come and to be an innovative community cultural arts destination.

Cottone remarked about some of the highlights of last year, "To close out 2013, Lakeside hosted its largest Christmas at the Dole, First Friday Art Show and Holiday performance in their twelve year history! Over 700 guests attended this signature event, which exceeded the foundations expectations, and the event would not have been possible without support from volunteers and sponsors."

Additionally, with the collaboration of the City of Crystal Lake Centennial Committee and Crystal Lake Park District, Lakeside co-hosted the inaugural Winter Fest with over 1,500 people in attendance to celebrate 100 great years of the City of Crystal Lake!

Winter Fest will return in 2014, and Lakeside plans for this event to become a new tradition, not only for Crystal Lake residents, but also as a winter event destination bringing people from surrounding communities to experience our "Gem".

A huge part of 2013 has been having 'the Listening Room' fully operational. This intimate concert venue is the newest treasure that has been added to Lakeside. The 2014 performance schedule is booked solid through early summer and the house is consistently packed, or even sold out. The schedule also includes events specifically designed for children and seniors. The concerts are affordably priced offering high caliber entertainment within reach of any budget.

Lakeside has many plans for the upcoming year and in early 2014, Lakeside launched a Women's Auxiliary. This group of fabulous ladies will support the organization by being ambassadors that raise awareness in the community about Lakeside's unique and extraordinary programs and services. This auxiliary is just one example of how volunteers make a difference and share their talents, professional backgrounds, and leadership to shape Lakeside's future.

Lakeside acknowledges that the community is asked to support many worthy organizations and publicly offers it's gratitude and thanks to the community for the donations, volunteer efforts, and attendance at events.

Cottone remarked, "The community has a choice and we appreciate your consideration of donating your time and treasures to our foundation, mission, and vision."

For more information or to make a contribution or to volunteer, visit www.LakesideLegacy.org or contact Siobhan Cottone directly at (815) 455-8000 or scottone@lakesidelegacy.org.

Lakeside is located at 401 Country Club Road in Crystal Lake and is open to the public to explore the galleries and Historic Dole Mansion Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.