The Free to Express Award honors a volunteer who has been an outstanding champion of Free Arts in the areas of development and/or marketing. This award recognizes an individual who volunteers his/her time to engage others with the mission of Free Arts and gives his/her time to promote our organization through fundraising, special events and/or marketing. 

Initially volunteering for Free Arts in 2000, Marion Donaldson has always been involved in development at Free Arts of Arizona. She first volunteered at our former Art from the Heart Art Auction as an event volunteer. Since then, she has also volunteered in a variety of programs with children, assisted with our Art Heals Luncheon, is currently a Free Arts Ambassador, and has recently joined our Development Committee.

“I love children and strongly believe in giving back to the community. The mission of Free Arts is so necessary and can impact children’s lives so profoundly. We can truly replace a weapon with a paintbrush and open a door that there is no telling where it will lead – pretty amazing!”

However, Marion’s integral involvement has been on the Palette of Homes Tour for the past four years. For three years in a row, Marion has been one of our fearless House Captains on the Home Tour, managing home and volunteer logistics for the tour. Her desire to expand her role for the Tour secured her position as Tour Coordinator in 2009. Managing aspects of the Palette of Homes Tour Committee and assisting staff with all phases of the tour, Marion was essential in having our tour be a success.

“Each year, there are several great memories of ‘game day’ when the home tour is in full swing. No matter how long we prepare, there is always a curve ball, but I dare tell because we want attendees and all parties involved to think we are near perfection!”

Congratulations, Marion! Thank you for your passion, humor and ability to champion Free Arts in all that you do.

Photo: Marion Donaldson (left) and Linda Kramer (right) represent Free Arts at a local beneficiary event.