Play It Forward: Writing Our Next Chapter
This year, Play It Forward takes on special significance as we celebrate our 50th anniversary and write the next chapter of Open Door’s story. We invite you to join us for an unforgettable evening on September 20 at the scenic rooftop garden of the Austin Central Library. This elevated event promises spectacular views of the city skyline and the chance to experience a magical night of stargazing in the heart of downtown Austin.
We’ll gather to celebrate the extraordinary progress of the past five decades while laying the foundation for the future of Open Door and the children we serve. Indulge in gourmet bites, crafted cocktails, and lively music, all while enjoying the stunning cityscape and the peaceful night sky above. It’s an evening to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and imagine a brighter future for the next 50 years.
Sponsorship Opportunity
As our signature fundraising event, Play It Forward is the cornerstone of our efforts to raise the critical funds needed to support Open Door’s mission. This year, we have set an ambitious fundraising goal of $120,000 and with your help, we can achieve it. Your early sponsorship is an investment in a future where every child has access to high-quality, inclusive early childhood education.
Read more about Sponsorship Levels here
Honoring David C. Smith
Play It Forward 2025 holds extra significance as we dedicate a portion of the evening to honoring our dear friend, David C. Smith, who will receive the Opening New Doors Award. This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies and promotes Open Door's values of equity and inclusion in our community.
David recently retired as CEO of United Way for Greater Austin after nine impactful years of service. Under his exceptional leadership, United Way saw tremendous growth, including mergers with United Way of Williamson County and Children’s Optimal Health, and strengthening the Success by Six coalition. Additionally, David played a leading role in the Affordable Childcare Now initiative and securing United Way of Greater Austin’s new home at Pease Elementary. David's 30+ years in non-profit leadership, marked by a philosophy of collaborative solutions and community impact, have truly made a difference in Austin.
Tickets Go On Sale August 13th
Event tickets for current parents are $120 and general admission is $150. Don’t miss Early Bird Ticket pricing from August 13th-20th!
Location & Entry: Play it Forward will be held on the Rooftop Garden at the Austin Central Library, located on the 6th Floor. Please enter the library via the 2nd Street entrance.
Childcare: Free childcare is available for children 7 years and under with Open Door Teachers at our Central school. Be sure to reserve your childcare spots when you purchase your ticket. Childcare Form
Parking: The Library Parking Garage entrance is on West Avenue. Accessible parking spots are available on P1 to the right as you enter. Parking spaces are limited, so we highly recommend considering a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft!
As always, Open Door strives to be open for ALL. If purchasing a ticket is not in your budget this year, please let us know by filling out the Pay What You Can form, and our village will cover the rest. To be included as a sponsor on event signage and in the program, your reply must be received no later than August 30th, 2025.
For questions about sponsorships or tickets reach out to Kati_Garrett@opendoorpreschool.org