Editor’s note: The Ouray County Plaindealer started publishing profiles of nonprofits between Thanksgiving and New Year’s in 2020 as a community service.

The purpose of these profiles is to highlight the meaningful work being performed by these organizations and let the community know how they can help them even more, as the holidays approach and we reach the end of 2024. Nonprofit organizations that are based in Ouray County and serve Ouray County are eligible for these profiles.

Year established as a nonprofit: 2012

What does your organization do for Ouray County?

The Sherbino and 610 Arts Collective, operated by Ridgway Chautauqua, enrich Ouray County by providing vibrant arts, culture and educational programming.

With a mission rooted in the Chautauqua tradition of lifelong learning, arts, and culture, we offer events that bring the community together, spark conversation, and inspire creativity.

Each year, we host over 100 programs, including live music, live theater, film screenings, stand-up comedy, storytelling, author talks and Sherb Talks, which cover topics from outdoor adventure to local issues. Our signature community events include the San Juan Barrel Fest, a celebration of local craft beverages.

We also collaborate with Weehawken Creative Arts to host the Ridgway 1K and Fête de la Musique, both of which highlight creativity and community connection. These events, along with our diverse programming, support local artists, bring people together, and attract visitors to the region. Our spaces, including the historic Sherbino Theater and the 610 Arts Collective gallery, serve as hubs for creativity and collaboration.

From offering opportunities for local performers and artists to hosting educational talks and fun community events, the Sherbino and 610 Arts Collective strengthen Ouray County’s cultural fabric, creating a vibrant, welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.

What do you list as your greatest accomplishments in 2024?

In 2024, we celebrated exceptional accomplishments, including hosting beloved community-wide events like the Ridgway 1K and Fête de la Musique, which brought people together in creative and joyful ways. We produced 134 diverse programs, ranging from live music and theater to storytelling and educational talks. The 610 Courtyard was revived, offering intimate live music experiences that enriched the community.

Additionally, the 610 Arts Collective had a remarkable year, showcasing more than 100 area artists through curated gallery shows. We are also honored to have served as a gathering space for several celebrations of life, where the community came together to mourn and celebrate the incredible people who have shaped and enriched Ouray County. These achievements reflect our deep commitment to arts, culture and community connection.

What are some goals or projects you have planned for 2025?

In 2025, Ridgway Chautauqua/ Sherbino aims to continue delivering high-quality programming while pursuing ambitious goals to strengthen its impact in Ouray County.

Key goals include expanding and diversifying programming.

We remain dedicated to offering excellent, community-friendly programming in a safe space that offers a little bit of “something for everyone”, appealing to all ages and interests.

In 2025, we plan to expand into new areas, including touring theater and improv, more comedy and an expanded menu of family-friendly programs, while continuing to refine and grow our event offerings.

We also have a goal to pay down our property debt. We are raising approximately $215,000 to pay down our portion of the debt on the property at 145 and 147 N. Cora St., a critical asset for our long-term plans.

We also want to activate more community members for programming committees that will help us tell more stories through talks, storytelling events and writers groups, fostering deeper connections and sharing the unique experiences and stories that shape our community.

We will clarify and expand private rental opportunities and elevate signature events like the San Juan Barrel Fest, Ridgway 1K and Fête de la Musique. Through these goals, we’re committed to fostering arts, culture and community, ensuring the Sherbino continues to be a vibrant and welcoming gathering space for all of Ouray County.

Tell us how the community can help you do more here in Ouray County.

We are always looking for volunteers to assist at the door, in the 610 Arts Collective gallery and at special events and fundraisers.

We also need helpers for bartending at special events, and in 2025, we’ll activate more trained volunteers to work behind the bar for smaller programs.

Community members can support our fundraising efforts by contributing to our capital campaign, making monthly donations to general operations, or designating gifts to a specific program area they’re passionate about.

We are excited to activate more committees in 2025, and we invite you to join in and be part of the story! We’re reviving our speaker/ lecture committee, exploring literary arts options with book and poetry enthusiasts, and launching a writer’s group focused on bringing stories to life onstage. You can also get involved by presenting an Ignite Talk in February or a Travel Talk this summer. The possibilities are endless, and your time, talent, and support will make a meaningful difference in bringing arts, culture and community to life in Ouray County!

Thank you to Ashley King for providing this information.