re:imagine/ATL, Atlanta’s leading nonprofit working with young people in film and digital media, announced today the results of Behind the Scenes, their inaugural fundraising gala, held at Third Rail Studios’ Sound Stage #1, on Friday August 25, 2017.
The event brought together executives and decision makers from the entertainment and media industries to pledge their support in stewarding the next generation of storytellers. In addition to raising over $40,000 for the cause, most of the 250 attendees, including representatives from Turner and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, made a commitment to mentor, host job shadows or internships, or speak at schools across Atlanta to expose high school students to careers in the film and media industry.
“The success of our students depends upon the input and investment from professionals across Atlanta’s film and media industry,” said Susanna Spiccia, Executive Director and Founder of re:imagine/ATL. “We are actively working to bridge the gap between Atlanta’s entertainment experts and teens interested in careers in film and media production. Behind the Scenes was the first time these experts were together in one room – an incredibly important step towards accomplishing that goal. As working professionals, we should never underestimate the power of intentional connection and focused advocacy. Even something as simple as an email from an industry professional to a young filmmaker could change their life.”
Chaired by re:imagine/ATL board member and co-founder of Atlanta Movie Tours, Patti Davis, the event was made possible through the generous support of many Atlanta businesses and individuals including Dan Rosenfelt and Scott Mobley from Third Rail Studios who hosted the event; TLC Rents generously provided chairs, tables, linens, glow bars and crystal centerpieces; Cinema Greens covered the set with incredible greenery; Picasso Brothers Printing ensured beautifully printed programs; Grey Goose Vodka, Rodney Strong Wines, and Samuel Adams Brewery provided specially created cocktails, wine and beer for the evening; Chef Jennifer Robbins of Good Foods Kitchen prepared a delicious buffet; and Bottle Rocket ATL kicked the evening off right with passed hors d’oeuvres.
Industry professionals and their guests were greeted on a red carpet by a cast of movie character impersonators including Thor and Spider-Man graciously provided Atlanta Movie Tours. Rental equipment donated by Hollywood Trucks and Hertz Entertainment Rental Company, and stage and lighting effects created by MBS Equipment Company made the sound stage feel like the set of a feature film.
Patti Davis added “It is my privilege to have chaired our inaugural gala and to have a small part in the support of this very special organization. Witnessing so many companies and individuals from our community come together to make this event happen and support our young people was an extraordinary experience. I believe fostering opportunities for the next generation of storytellers benefits our entire culture. Thanks to the vision and passion of Susanna Spiccia, re:imagine/ATL teens will shape a better future.”
Funds raised from the evening will be put towards re:imagine/ATL’s programs implemented around the Atlanta metro area this fall. High school students who are interested in participating may visit their website, http://www.reimagineatl.com to learn more.
re:imagine/ATL is currently seeking to connect companies and individuals in the film and digital media industries who are willing to provide mentoring, job shadowing, internships, equipment, or space with high school students across metro Atlanta. For more information or to express interest, email julie@reimagineatl.com
