Swanee Astrid
“Something truly given not just of your time, but of your heart can never be taken away. In my strange little corner of the world I see how much each of us gives to our sense of democracy and justice and equality through the time and space we share to come together; I am reminded of how much passion there is in the world and am validated in my own existence by this unity.”
What do you love about your hometown?
If I told you, you’d probably want to move here.
Tell us about your unique perspective when it comes to volunteer coordination.
I have been a volunteer for many occasions from parking at Renaissance fairs as a teenager to venue managing at major festivals as an adult. A lot of volunteer work occurs through my coordinator position at Naropa University with the student body and curricular events. As a community organizer in the writing community I host a regular series and am spearheading a mentorship program for queer youth with a therapeutic services non-profit, Queer Asterisk.
What is your favorite hobby or activity outside of work:
Cooking is a regular practice and one of my life passions. Also aikido & archery– I especially wish I had more time for these!
Who is your favorite musical artist?
Anne Waldman who is not techinically a musician, but if you have ever seen her perform you know she is a rockstar and her rendition of Jaguar Harmonics & Gimme Shelter” at the Jack Kerouac School is in my book of memories I’ll remember when I curtains close”
Where would your friends find you on a typical Friday night?
Holding an arts salon among our friends group, appreciating each others explorations in creativity while enjoying mixed drinks, delicious food, ultimately always dancing.