TLP 2030 Campaign
Securing the Future of Your Theatre in the Woods
A five-year pledge initiative to eliminate pandemic-era debt and strengthen the future of Timber Lake Playhouse.
GOAL: $500,000 over five years
PURPOSE: Retire debt incurred during the pandemic and secure long-term financial stability.
ABOUT THE CAMPAIGN
For more than 60 years, Timber Lake Playhouse has brought professional theatre to Northwest Illinois, creating unforgettable experiences for audiences, artists, and our community.
Like many performing arts organizations, TLP faced extraordinary challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal relief programs helped sustain operations in 2021 and 2022, but when those programs ended they left behind a significant funding gap.
To keep the theatre open and serving our community, we were forced to rely on short-term borrowing.
The TLP2030 Campaign is our plan to responsibly eliminate that debt and strengthen the financial foundation of the theatre we love.
Our goal is to secure $100,000 per year for five years, allowing TLP to retire pandemic-era debt and move forward on solid financial footing.
Every dollar raised through this campaign will go directly toward paying down past debt — not current operations.
IMPORTANT: THIS DOES NOT REPLACE ANNUAL GIVING
Our Annual Fund, sponsorships, and grants are what keep the theatre running each season. These gifts support productions, artists, staff, and educational programs.
The TLP2030 Campaign is designed to supplement that support — not replace it.
We ask supporters to consider making a new five-year pledge in addition to their annual giving if they are able.
Maintaining strong annual support ensures the curtain continues to rise each season while this campaign secures our long-term future.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Supporters are invited to consider a five-year pledge at one of the following levels:
Pledges may be fulfilled annually, quarterly, or monthly.
MATCHING GIFT OPPORTUNITY
We are currently seeking one or more donors willing to match the total pledged amount of the campaign.
A matching commitment would double the impact of every gift, accelerating our ability to eliminate pandemic-era debt and secure TLP’s future.
If you are interested in serving as a lead or matching donor, we would love to speak with you.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Timber Lake Playhouse has served our region since 1961, providing:
• Professional theatre in Northwest Illinois
• Employment for hundreds of artists and technicians
• Arts education opportunities for young people
• Cultural experiences that bring our community together
By participating in the TLP2030 Campaign, you help ensure that future generations can experience the magic of live theatre in Mount Carroll.
MAKE YOUR PLEDGE
Join us in securing the future of Your Theatre in the Woods.
or download a pledge card and return it to:
Timber Lake Playhouse
8215 Black Oak Road
Mount Carroll, IL 61053
(815) 244-2035
giving@timberlakeplayhouse.org