Georgia Youth Theater Group Reflects on production of The Laramie Project

Last week the Newnan Theatre Company of Newnan, Georgia producedThe Laramie Project as a part of their 14- to 21-year-olds summer theater program. Susan Burk, Laramie Project Specialist for the Matthew Shepard Foundation, worked closely with the production as they prepared to present such an emotionally mature play. Our Laramie Project support staff continues to enjoy working closely with casts of young actors who connect directly with Matthew’s story.

“I feel truly blessed to have performed a show with an amazing cause,” Kaley Bunce, a cast member of the show shared on our Facebook page. “I have learned so much from it. It has truly changed me. I feel proud to say that I have shared Matt’s story and what his community has been through… I will remember this for the rest of my life.”

“I am proud to help share Matt’s story and I hope future generations will continue to do so as it is so moving and inspiring!” cast member Yasmeen Griffin added to the Facebook discussion. “It has really opened up new doors for me, and I truly love this show.”

“Both teen shows this summer contain mature content,” said NTC Artistic Director Paul Conroy in an interview with local media. “We want to give this age group an opportunity to perform in challenging shows that they would not normally be able to do.”

MSF Denver Office Intership Opportunity

The Matthew Shepard Foundation Denver office is currently accepting resumes for our internship program. We are looking for a passionate and hard-working high school or college student who is looking to receive course credit and is interested in our work to replace hate with understanding, compassion and acceptance.

Our future intern will assist staff in the day-to-day operations of the office as well as take the lead on special tasks for the Programs and Development departments.  At this time we are only able to accept interns that can work in our Denver office.

If you or someone you know is interested in working 8 -10 hours a week in our Denver office, please have them contact Robert House, Programs and Outreach Manager atRobert@MatthewShepard.org.

Spirit of Matthew Award Nominations

Still Being Accepted

The Staff and Board of the Matthew Shepard Foundation are still accepting nominations for the Spirit of Matthew Award to be presented at the 11th Annual Bear to Make a Difference Gala and Celebrity Teddy Bear Auction.

If you know a young person who is working to make his or her community better for LGBT youth, please take a minute to nominate him or her by clicking here.