ESSEX community players GIVES BACK
Through its “Essex Gives Back” program, ECP gives our patrons the opportunity to make donations to a local charitable organization. Below is a list of just some of the organizations that have benefited from Essex Gives Back.
Following our 2019 Winter Production of The Tell-Tale Farce, ECP presented Martha’s Community Kitchen with a gift of $955, of which $252 came from the raffle of wine, bottle stopper, and case made by cast member Thom Smith!
For over 30 years the primary focus at Martha’s Kitchen has been to try and meet the basic needs of food and companionship while offering hope through compassionate service. Supported by area churches, businesses and individuals, they rely on volunteers who strive to welcome, inspire and nourish; seeking to restore relationships through respect and dignity.
2025-2026 Seasonal Giving
A message From AGE WELL:
Essex Community Players Raised $1,720 for Age Well Through Essex Gives Back Program
We were delighted to meet Cindy and Don MacKechnie as they presented a generous $1,720
donation to Age Well on behalf of the Essex Community Players. This wonderful gift was made
possible through their long-standing Essex Gives Back program, a community-driven initiative that
has supported local charities since 2006.
The Essex Gives Back program began during the Players’ annual holiday show, when attendees
would bring canned goods for the local food shelf. Over time, the tradition evolved, allowing each
show’s director to select a charity that resonated with the production’s theme. Since 2020 alone,
the program has raised more than $11,000 for organizations across Vermont.
For their recent production of Daddy’s Girl, Cindy incorporated creative ways for theatergoers to
give, including intermission raffles and opportunities for online donations. Local businesses
generously contributed gift cards, including Salt and Bubbles, Phoenix Books, Purple Sage Salt
Caves, Leo & Co., Brew House Coffee, Shelburne Winery, and a pair of tickets to the Players’
spring production of The Rocky Horror Show.
Raffle participants were also entered to win one of several grand prizes: a $250 experience at The
Essex Resort, a dinner for two at Bramble Restaurant, and a gift bundle from The Cat and Dog
valued at $150.
Age Well is deeply grateful for this meaningful support. Community partnerships like this help
us continue providing nutritious meals, care coordination, and essential resources to older
Vermonters across our region.
Thank you, Cindy, Don, the Essex Community Players, and all who contributed to this thoughtful
and impactful fundraiser!
