Cydney Colvig, Special Events Volunteer
In every city she has resided, Cydney Colvig seeks out artistic opportunities of both the professional and volunteer nature. Originally from Canada, Cydney has lived in cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Chicago and now Grand Rapids. Cyd’s professional career was built around her creative talents, which originate in fiber arts. She has designed and manufactured clothing, fashion accessories, furniture upholstery, pillows, bedding, throws, curtains and table linens. Cyd has served in leadership volunteer roles for organizations such as Design Exchange, an organization for all design genres in Toronto; and the CONTACT Toronto Photography Festival, the largest photography festival in the world.

Immediately upon moving to Grand Rapids two years ago, Cyd found UICA via the internet. “I didn’t know anyone here and I wanted to do something to fill the time and meet people,” she said. Cyd has volunteered for many UICA events over the past two years, including Women & the Arts lead key sales/raffle ticket sales person, Holiday Artists’ Market decorations committee, ArtPrize voter registration at UICA, NoshNight: Recycled Runway fashion designer, front desk reception, and decorating and prop making for various events. Cyd is extremely reliable, and can be counted on to jump in last minute for any volunteer need we might have. She has even recruited her family to volunteer for special events. Her husband, Bruce, is a volunteer bartender, and her sons Taylor, 14 and Jordan, 17 have helped at the front desk and as food servers. Cyd also has a daughter, Magenta, who lives in Toronto.

In addition to Cyd’s volunteer roles listed previously, special events volunteer responsibilities include greeting guests, selling tickets, registering guests, decorating, serving food, bussing tables, tending bar, and setting up and tearing down event furnishings. Dedicated volunteers like Cydney are an integral part of UICA ’s ability to bring contemporary arts programming to the public. Volunteer hours can be used for high school or college credit, résumé building and professional experience. In addition to volunteering at special events, UICA offers the following volunteer opportunities: Front Desk Reception, Gallery Assistant, Street Team, Education Program Assistant, Film Theatre and Concessions, and Committees.

For more information about volunteer opportunities at UICA, contact Phil Meade at pr@uica.org or 616 454 7000 x19.