Canadian Improv Games Fundraising

CIG is an organization that has become near and dear to my heart. I am raising funds for training materials, training sessions (including travel) and summer programs. CIG is a really great chance for teens to positively explore their creativity, and find comfort and confidence in self-expression. For some regions who have faced cuts to the arts in schools, this is also an opportunity to practice performance and storytelling skills. Basically, I wish I had had access to it when I was in high school:) Any size donation is much appreciated, and if you wish you remain anonymous, you can. You also get a tax receipt for donations $20 and over. Trailer for "In the Moment", a documentary made about CIG: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFn2ZvHGGGQ (Yes, that *is* CIG Alumna Sandra Oh you see in there!) Some Background: For over 30 years, teams of students from over 300 Canadian high schools have participated in the Canadian Improv Games. Students form teams at the high school level and then compete in regional and provincial festivals for the right to participate in the National Finals, which are held at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. The mission of CIG is to develop in its participants the skills needed to thrive in the ever-increasing pace and complexity of today’s world – namely, the ability to respond with initiative and teamwork to a myriad of difficult and challenging situations in an intuitive, innovative, creative, energetic, and timely manner. Participants have said: “I like being able to be myself.” “In school I can be more confident when making presentations.” “It has given me more confidence and shown me that I have talent.” “It has made me brave.” “I went to Africa last year and worked in an orphanage and when there was a language barrier we could still communicate through basic improv games that require actions and universal sounds.” “It has made me for confident in my actions. It has made me more friendly, genuine, and comfortable.” “Improv has helped me approach every problem head on and with confidence.” “I like the cooperative spirit of all the players." “I really enjoy the community of the CIG. It’s so welcoming, and you always meet new people.” “The competitive love. If you win or lose, everyone loves you the same.”