This summer, we’re deeply honored to share some big news: longtime Music & Dance Camp participant and beloved community member Eileen Amy Ryan has made a $50,000 matching pledge in support of Ashokan. That means—for a limited time—every donation is TRIPLED thanks to Eileen’s gift and our ongoing $500,000 matching fund.

To celebrate, we’re sharing Eileen’s Ashokan story—a story about music, transformation, and what it means to feel fully at home.

Eileen first discovered Ashokan through musician and instructor Debra Clifford. At the time, Eileen was just beginning her transition as a transgender woman, and Debra encouraged her to attend the Old Time Rollick, assuring her it was a warm, welcoming space for everyone.

That first year—2020—there was no in-person camp. But Eileen joined the virtual Rollick and was deeply moved by the experience. “The final performance of Ashokan Farewell brought tears to my eyes,” she recalled. “It was way beyond my expectations.”

From that moment, Eileen was all in. She found joy in the camaraderie of jams, the support of instructors, and the deep sense of fellowship that runs through Ashokan’s music programs.

“The Ashokan vibe is so welcoming,” she said. “The instructors really pay attention to each of us musicians, noticing what we need to take it up a notch—always with kindness and support.”

As a transgender woman, Eileen is particularly attuned to spaces that feel safe and uplifting. “In these difficult times, it’s rare to find places where I feel completely and joyfully at home. But it’s not just me—it seems everyone feels that way at Ashokan.”

The culture of kindness and belonging, she says, goes beyond the music. It’s woven into everything Ashokan does: the environmental advocacy, the community outreach, and the way the Ashokan Center brings together people of all ages to learn, grow, and create.

When asked why she chose to make such a generous pledge, Eileen said simply:
 “Come on down. Do good with wonderful folks and have fun.”

Eileen’s gift is an invitation to support a place where people feel truly connected, celebrated, and inspired.

👉 [Donate now and triple your impact]

Thank you, Eileen, for helping us grow the future. And thank you to everyone who keeps the Ashokan spirit alive!.