We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.
— Sir Winston Churchill

Art in the Garden Festival is an all volunteer organization whose mission is to create an annual event focused on raising money to benefit the local Community United Methodist Church (CUMC) Community Assistance Fund while showcasing the talents of our southwest area painters, sculptors, musicians and chefs; in a location whose physical beauty is outstanding; where electricity, water and cooking facilities are available; and where there is enough space to provide parking for several hundred attendees.

The Community Assistance Fund, funded and administered by the Community United Methodist Church, is an organized effort that has been helping individuals for well over ten years. This fund meets emergency needs of people in the Archuleta County area, regardless of their religious affiliation, if any. Additionally, on occasion, money or commodities go to help people who are just passing through our community and find themselves in unexpected need of some type of support.

The need in our community is great and the experience of donating both time and money is a very life afirming and rewarding experience. The volunteers who work with Art in the Garden Festival come from throughout Archuleta County. They are required to purchase tickets to the event as well as give of their time and, in almost all cases, they give additional money above and beyond the price of the ticket. It is because of the kindness and generosity of these wonderful individuals that Art in the Garden Festival was able to put $11,000 into the Community Assistance Fund in 2010, and $12,000 in 2009. Although most of the proceeds are raised through the sale of tickets at $40 each, the volunteers for Art in the Garden work hard to secure other donations to keep the expenses for putting on the event at a minimum. In addition to the volunteers and chefs, the artists and musicians participating donate their time and talent, donating a portion of art and music sales made at the event.

There is room for you to lend a helping hand in whatever way you can. From donating money to donating time and materials, you can be a part of making Archuleta County a better place to live for even its most needy citizens. To join us, please pick an option below:

Please fill out and submit the 2011 AITG Volunteer/Donation form.
OR Click here to download the volunteer/donation form in PDF format.